New stonemason apprenticeships come at 'pivotal moment' for Scotland's historic buildings
Traditional crafts have been on the decline in Scotland - but stonemasonry apprenticeships could turn the industry around
Scotland’s world renowned historic buildings are at a “pivotal moment” as traditional craft skills suffer rapid decline.
Experts said the need for vital skills to repair and maintain both ancient structures and one million at-risk homes have “never been greater”.
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) estimates Scotland has fewer than 10 thatchers, five stained‑glass conservators and rapidly declining numbers of blacksmiths and stonemasons.
However, in a bid to kickstart the reverse of the downward trend, the heritage body has announced two new stonemasonry apprenticeship opportunities in Dumfries and Galloway.
They offer a rare chance to join the team working on some of the region’s most famous historic sites.
After completing his first year of training, apprentice stonemason and Dumfries local Kody Burns is on a mission to inspire young people across Scotland to consider a career in traditional skills.
The 19‑year‑old has used the Stonemasonry and Banker Masonry apprenticeship programme to have hands-on experience at sites such as Holyrood Abbey and Caerlaverock Castle.
Now in his second year, he is working towards his SCQF level 6 qualification under the guidance and mentorship of HES’s Lead Mason in Dumfries, Johnnie Cunningham.
Kody said: “Before I started the course, I didn’t really know what stonemasonry was but after watching some videos of people dressing stones, I was fascinated and couldn’t wait to learn more.
“The course has been very rewarding, and I love sharing photos and videos of my work with friends and family.
“I’ve given friends books to help them understand more about the skills and it’s great that some of them have applied to join the course next year.
“I’m encouraging other young people across Scotland to explore the traditional skills apprenticeships on offer and consider a career in the heritage sector.
“Scotland’s history is in your hands, this is your chance to make your mark.”
In October 2025, Kody was named HES Apprentice Banker Mason of the Year after completing his first year of training.
Colin Tennant, Head of Technical Conservation at Historic Environment Scotland (HES), said: “We are reaching a pivotal moment for Scotland’s historic environment.
“The vital skills needed to care for our traditional buildings are in increasingly short supply and our current approach to skills training does not serve traditional skills well.
“These are not niche skills: stonemasonry and other traditional skills like lead working and blacksmithing are fundamental to the built environment we have in Scotland.”
Some 10,000 new jobs will be needed over the next decade to maintain and adapt Scotland’s traditional building stock to provide affordable homes.
Traditional buildings are estimated to make up 19 per cent of Scotland’s housing stock.
“With more than a million homes at risk due to disrepair and with the drive towards net zero demanding sensitive, skilled interventions in older buildings, the need for trained craftspeople has never been greater,” Mr Tennant added.
“Over the next decade, more than 10,000 new jobs will be needed to maintain and adapt our traditional building stock.
“There is no net zero without traditional skills.
“The sector’s Skills Investment Plan sets out a clear path forward but we cannot deliver it alone. “We need a coordinated national effort to attract young people, career changers and skilled workers into the sector, supported by clear and accessible training pathways.
“By investing in these skills now, we can safeguard Scotland’s built heritage and create meaningful, sustainable jobs for generations to come.
“What we now need is a shift in the existing skills approach so that those committed to improving the training situation across Scotland are better able to do so.”
HES will be holding an Open Day at MacLellan’s Castle on Tuesday, March 31, where stonemasons will be giving demonstrations and talking about their roles.
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