At Delaney Marling Partnership, we are proud to serve as custodians of one of the UK’s most iconic historic buildings, Beverley Minster. As Chartered Building Surveyors deeply involved in the conservation and maintenance of this medieval masterpiece, we understand the vital role that heritage skills play in preserving our architectural legacy.
Our team wants to highlight the importance of these traditional crafts and encourage young people, parents, and educators to consider heritage trades as rewarding and meaningful career paths.
The demand for skilled professionals in heritage trades such as stonemasonry, lead work, glazing, carpentry, and metalwork is growing rapidly. This is driven by an ageing workforce and the increasing need for conservation across the country’s historic buildings. Yet, these careers often go unnoticed in schools and career guidance, leaving a gap that we are committed to bridging.
Simon Delaney, our Surveyor to Beverley Minster, explains:
“Heritage skills are essential to maintaining our nation’s historic buildings, yet many young people are unaware of the opportunities available in this field. Working on extraordinary structures like Beverley Minster offers a unique chance to learn traditional techniques passed down through generations. It’s not just a job – it’s a legacy.”
Our work at Beverley Minster involves managing a dedicated maintenance team and collaborating with specialist craftspeople to care for a building whose roots date back over 900 years. From repairing stone pinnacles high above the town to restoring delicate stained glass, these roles combine practical craftsmanship with a deep appreciation of history.
Careers in heritage skills offer variety, creativity, and the satisfaction of contributing to something timeless. They can be accessed through apprenticeships, degree apprenticeships supported by the Beverley Minster Old Fund, specialist training programmes, or on-the-job learning. These pathways provide hands-on experience and formal qualifications, preparing the next generation to safeguard our built heritage.
Simon adds:
“There’s an urgent need to inspire new craftspeople. Without them, our ability to maintain historic landmarks like Beverley Minster will be at risk. Heritage skills offer not only technical training but also a sense of purpose and pride in contributing to something much bigger than oneself.”
We invite schools, career advisors, and young people interested in history, craftsmanship, or architecture to explore these exciting opportunities. To learn more or discuss how to get involved, please contact our team directly.
At Delaney Marling Partnership, we are committed to preserving the past while inspiring the future — ensuring that the skills and stories embedded in our historic buildings continue to thrive for generations to come.