Issue 39 Sept 23 - Journal - Page 48
Did you know CIOB recognises
and certifies construction
professionals working in
building conservation?
In 2017, the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB)
developed a Building Conservation Certification Scheme
in consultation with English Heritage, the National Trust,
Historic Scotland and the Welsh Government’s historic
environment service, Cadw. This scheme provides
recognition and validates competence for those who work
on traditional and historic buildings, including clients,
consultants, academics, regulators, and contractors.
As careers within the heritage sector are evolving and
companies are looking to achieve a good balance of
traditional and new skills within their workforce, this
scheme acts as a pathway for individuals who want to gain
additional qualifications and progress their careers in
building conservation. Approved members of the scheme
are able to evidence to employers, clients, and other
organisations that they are working to the CIOB’s
building conservation competencies and the ICOMOS
guidelines for education and training, as well as
demonstrating they have a steadfast commitment to
continuous development.
Each of the three levels within the scheme has a different
entry requirement and assessment criteria. To achieve
certification, professionals are required to provide a
number of workplace examples to demonstrate the depth
of their experience and industry-specific knowledge. They
are also required to show understanding and proof of their
commitment to a holistic approach to sustainability and
energy efficiency issues. Upon successful completion, the
approved member is awarded a level-specific certificate
and added to a CIOB managed and verified register.
These levels start with CIOB Registered in Building
Conservation, which show that a professional has
intermediate experience and knowledge in heritage and
conservation. This level is ideal for those who do not
predominately work in the conservation sector but are
seeking to gain more experience in the future and want
to demonstrate their commitment in this field.
For those with moderate experience of traditional
buildings, including listed buildings and scheduled
monuments, there is the CIOB Proficient in Building
Conservation level of competency. Professionals at
this level demonstrate a proficient understanding and
knowledge working in building conservation.
The final level, CIOB Certified Specialist in Building
Conservation, is for those who are able to demonstrate
the highest level of expertise in building conservation.
They are considered as specialists in the field who have
an extensive understanding of the significance and
historic value of buildings and the philosophy of building
conservation. They will also have some influence on the
sector and belong to conservation committees or groups
advising on conservation principles and practices.
