A Future Set In Stone

Two construction skills students in receipt of a Duchy of Lancaster bursary are heading for distinctions in their Finals next year. Peter Maynard and Tom Roscoe are both studying stonemasonry at Moulton College in Northamptonshire and have spent the last year applying their knowledge to practical training roles within the workplace.

These placements have included major restoration projects at Exeter Cathedral and the Roman site at Chester Farm in Wellingborough. Peter also represented the College at the National Skillbuild challenge in London where more than 80 students, trainees and apprenticeships demonstrated their skills in a wide range of disciplines including cabinet-making, dry stonewalling, carpentry, roofing, tiling and stonemasonry. Both have received distinctions in their studies throughout the year and are now preparing submissions for the Wellingborough Zoo project, with Peter producing a carving and Tom a sculpture for public display next year.

Commenting on the difference the bursary has made to the last year, Peter said: “Funding from the Duchy of Lancaster has helped me to make the most of my Level 2 diploma course. It helped me to take advantage of placement opportunities which have given me a great insight into restoration projects and to broaden my skillset to include specialist areas such as stone carving.”

Tom added: “Being a mature student, I’m all too aware of the value of the opportunities that come with studying stonemasonry at Moulton College. This award has helped to create a positive environment so that I can concentrate on progressing to become the best stonemason I can be, giving me a strong foundation for future employment in the industry.”

Congratulating Peter and Tom on an excellent year of academic and practical achievements, Duchy Head of Project Management Graeme Chalk said: “The Duchy bursary was created to encourage the development of traditional skills and craftsmanship so we are very pleased to hear of the excellent progress made by Peter and Tom over the last 12 months. The translation of learning into practical hands-on experience is vital for students following vocational courses and it is encouraging to see that both Peter and Tom have been able to take full advantage of the opportunities provided by the College.”

In addition to the construction skills bursary launched last year, the Duchy of Lancaster supports agricultural students at Myerscough and Harper Adams Colleges and invests over £25,000 each year in academic awards and grants.