Canal College and Heritage
From 1st May 2019, we are delighted to be taking forward new canal-based, cultural heritage projects, previously undertaken by Scottish Waterways Trust. These projects help create a brighter future for the people, communities and wildlife of Scotland by building life skills, connecting people with their natural environment and conserving our rich heritage.
Canal College
Canal College is a heritage skills focused employability project which helps people boost their life and work chances whilst protecting the nation’s canal heritage.
The programme helps people to:
- Gain real practical work experience
- Earn a variety of recognised awards and qualifications
- Overcome barriers to work and education
- Build confidence and self-esteem
- Enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits of working outdoors
- Enhance their communication and social skills
- Move forward with their lives, better skilled and equipped for the job market
The canal college training programme is available in three locations across Scotland: Falkirk, Inverness and West Dunbartonshire. It is aimed at people aged 16+ who are not in employment and who are looking to progress into a job, further education or training.
During the programme, participants undertake a wide range of practical projects helping conserve and enhance the built, natural and cultural heritage of three of Scotland's 200-year-old canals: the Forth & Clyde, Union and Caledonian canals.
Topics include:
- Canalside archaeology
- Forestry and conservation
- Canalside maintenance and engineering
- Stone carving and stone repair
- Pathwork and woodwork
- Management of vegetation and invasive species
Canal cultural heritage
Did you know the entire canal network in Scotland is designated a scheduled ancient monument? Our canals play an important part in Scotland’s history and are over 200 years old. To help protect and conserve them, we run three projects:
- Canal Works – working with volunteers to care for the historic canal environment
- Canal School – inspiring young people about our canal history
- Canal Life – engaging people with the cultural heritage of the canals
Find out more about these projects and how you can get involved.
