Heritage Masonry- Training and Assessment
Tywi Centre
March 2026
Grant funding available
Become a Qualified Heritage Mason
NVQ Level 3 in Heritage Masonry – Train with the Tywi Centre
The Tywi Centre is a CITB Approved Training Organisation, nationally recognised for delivering high-quality heritage construction training. We’re passionate about keeping traditional building skills alive – and helping skilled masons achieve the recognition they deserve.
This course combines 20 days of intensive, hands-on training with up to 18 months of on-site assessment, leading to the NVQ Level 3 in Heritage Masonry – the gold standard qualification for working on historic and traditional buildings.
Why Choose the NVQ3 in Heritage Masonry?
✔ Gain specialist skills to conserve, repair, and restore traditional buildings.
✔ Learn from experts with real-world experience in heritage construction.
✔ Train in specialist heritage techniques and materials – especially lime mortar.
✔ Build a professional portfolio based on your real site work.
✔ Achieve a nationally recognised qualification that sets you apart.
Flexible Training Options
Choose the path that suits you:
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Training Only – 20 days of practical learning.
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Assessment Only – Already skilled? Get the qualification.
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Training + Assessment – The full package.
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Train Now, Assess Later – Build confidence, then qualify when ready.
Who Can Apply?
- Ideally, you’ll hold an NVQ2 in Brickwork or Masonry
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OR have strong on-site experience
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Not sure? We’ll carry out an Initial Skills Assessment to check your readiness
Provisional Training Dates 2026
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March 2-6
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May 11-15
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July 27-31
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September 7-11
(Each block: one week, Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm)
Costs & Funding
| Option | What’s Included | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Training Only | 20 days training | £3,500 |
| Assessment Only | 18-month on-site assessment | £2,500 |
| Training + Assessment | Both training & assessment | £6,000 |
💡 CITB Registered Companies could get full funding, travel/accommodation support, and completion grants.
Self-funding? Flexible instalments available.
Course content- a summary of what you'll learn and practice:
Over 20 days, you’ll cover:
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Repair & Maintenance of Traditional Buildings – why they matter, how to protect them.
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Materials for Heritage Masonry – lime, aggregates, clay, breathable materials.
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Recognising Defects in Stonework – spot damage and apply the right fix.
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Specialist Techniques in Stonemasonry – drawings, setting out, heritage tools.
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Conservation & Repair in Practice – live case studies and real repairs.
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Complex Masonry Projects – arches, foundations, walls, steps and more.
Then, through on-site assessment, you’ll prove your skills in areas including:
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Conservation and restoration work
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Complex stone masonry projects
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Safe, professional practice
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Correct use of heritage materials
Why Train with the Tywi Centre?
🌍 Work with a leading heritage training centre in Wales.
🛠 Learn from expert trainers and assessors.
🏛 Join a network of professionals working on the UK’s most important historic buildings.
Ready to Get Started?
📞 Call us: 01558 824271 / 07929 770743
📧 Email: canolfantywicentre@carmarthenshire.gov.uk
🌐 Visit: www.tywicentre.org.uk
🚀 Take your career to the next level – train with the Tywi Centre and achieve your NVQ3 in Heritage Masonry.
Watch this short film for an insight into what our learners think!
Master Mason Oliver Coe- meet your tutor and assessor!
Oliver Coe is a highly respected Master Mason and the founder of Coe Stone Ltd, a specialist conservation company based in West Wales. With over 30 years’ experience, Oliver has led restoration and stonework projects at some of the nation’s most treasured historic sites, including Llandaff Cathedral, Cardigan Castle, Dyffryn House, and the Priory Church of St Mary’s in Abergavenny. His work brings together traditional craftsmanship, such as hot lime mortars, carving and letter cutting, with a deep understanding of heritage conservation.
Alongside his practice, Oliver is passionate about passing on these skills. He works closely with the Tywi Centre, guiding NVQ3 learners through hands-on projects such as rebuilding historic estate walls at Dinefwr and The National Botanic Garden of Wales. Known for his friendly, approachable teaching style, Oliver creates a supportive learning environment where learners and employers alike can gain practical expertise and the confidence to take their craft to the next level.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss your individual circumstances, either get in touch or complete the form below to register your interest!