Luke O’Hanlon - Stonemasonry Bursary Student (Foundations in Heritage)
Qualification achieved - L3 NVQ Diploma in Heritage Skills (Construction)- Mason
Luke was on the Foundations in Heritage Bursary Programme in 2014. He came to the programme with a passion for drystone walling and turned this experience to his advantage, after a year gaining his NVQ Level 3 qualification in Stonemasonry. He had placements with Heritage 2000 in Carmarthenshire led him to work on a broad variety of projects across West Wales.
Luke says . . .
My placement with Heritage 2000 was very enjoyable. I worked closely alongside two very passionate craftsmen, who were only too happy to impart their conservation knowledge, skills and strong work ethic to me.
I was very happy with the outcome of the scheme, and the unique opportunity it provided gave me a solid foundation for my continued career.
And now . . .
Following a period working for Cadw on Caernarfon and Conwy Castles in North Wales Luke has moved to South Wales and is based with the Cadwraeth team at Neath Abbey.
His passion for stonemasonry has led him to undertake a course in teaching so he can pass on his interest to others, and the Tywi Centre has used him as a trainer to deliver masonry courses.