The trainees are part of Skills for the Future, a UK-wide project offering people from all walks of life the opportunity to gain valuable vocational knowledge and transferable skills in the heritage sector. The Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland (RCAHMS) is the first organisation in Scotland to host trainees on the Skills for the Future programme, which is funded by Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

Now over half way through their time with RCAHMS, this year’s seven trainees have so far worked on digitising Second World War aerial photography, presenting archival exhibitions, and delivering educational activities to primary school pupils at locations ranging from castles and museums to country houses. Through placements with partner organisations such as Historic Scotland, the National Trust for Scotland and Heart of Hawick, the RCAHMS trainees have also been able to experience a variety of work across Scotland’s heritage sector.

The trainees are now demonstrating their new skills to representatives from a range of heritage organisations - an audience of potential future employers. A film highlighting the archiving process, an exploration of 3D aerial photography, and a demonstration of innovative heritage education techniques will feature at the event, held in Edinburgh Castle's "Devil's Elbow" dungeon.

Jill de Fresnes, Project Manager of RCAHMS Skills for the Future programme, said “In this period of financial downturn, giving people the opportunity of work-based learning and face-to-face contact with leaders in the heritage industry could be instrumental in helping them make a crucial step on to the career ladder. This event is a fantastic opportunity for our trainees to meet potential employers, demonstrate the wealth of experience they’ve gained so far in RCAHMS, and show just how much they can offer to the sector in the future.”

Commenting, Colin McLean, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund in Scotland, said: “We congratulate these trainees on what they have achieved as they have grasped this opportunity to learn new skills.  Learning skills can not only make a difference to a person’s own life but are critical in seeing the country through this downturn and the recovery that will follow. We have been delighted with the popularity of Skills for the Future and this event provides a great opportunity to showcase just what can be achieved.”