Council on Training in Architectural Conservation

The Building Crafts College, Kennard Road, Stratford, London
E15 1AH, United Kingdom

About

The Council on Training in Architectural Conservation (COTAC) is a UK-based charity established in 1959, dedicated to advancing education and training in the conservation of the historic environment. COTAC aims to support all individuals involved in the protection and preservation of buildings and sites of cultural, architectural, or historical significance. By integrating laypeople, craftspeople, specialists, and professionals, COTAC fosters a comprehensive approach to conservation education, ensuring that knowledge and skills are disseminated across various sectors involved in heritage preservation.

COTAC offers a range of educational resources and training opportunities to cater to diverse audiences, including building conservation professionals, homeowners, and enthusiasts. Their "Understanding Conservation" initiative provides structured learning materials based on the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) Education and Training Guidelines, promoting consistency and quality in conservation education. Additionally, COTAC's "Insight Series" comprises downloadable PDFs that offer in-depth information on various aspects of building conservation, making it accessible to a broad audience.

To address the shortage of traditional building skills, COTAC collaborates with organizations like Essex County Council to offer bursaries for traditional building skills courses. These bursaries provide opportunities for individuals in the building industry, particularly independent builders and small contractors, to gain hands-on experience in craft building techniques relevant to historic buildings. Applicants are expected to demonstrate a commitment to expanding their knowledge of the built heritage sector.

COTAC also plays a pivotal role in organizing conferences and seminars that bring together conservation professionals, educators, and enthusiasts to share knowledge and best practices. These events serve as platforms for discussing current issues in heritage conservation and for networking among stakeholders. By facilitating such gatherings, COTAC contributes to the continuous professional development of individuals involved in the conservation sector.

In its commitment to promoting high standards in conservation education and practice, COTAC collaborates with national agencies, professional bodies, educational institutions, and training organizations. The council's objectives include setting and maintaining standards for conservation education, developing and promoting training materials, and providing support for relevant studies and course attendance. Through these efforts, COTAC ensures that the knowledge and skills necessary for the preservation of the historic environment are effectively disseminated and upheld.

Info

Email: info@cotac.global
Principal Areas of Work: Conservation Education, Heritage Training, Traditional Building Skills, Professional Development, Craftsmanship Bursaries, Public Engagement, Digital Resources, Conservation Conferences, Educational Publications, Historic Environment Advocacy
Capabilities and Specialisms: Architectural Conservation, Historic Building Preservation, Conservation Standards, ICOMOS Guidelines, CPD Materials, Conservation Research, Training Programmes, Heritage Skills Promotion, Conservation Seminars, Built Heritage Support

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