Foundation Degree in Historic Building Conservation

Course content (Subject to validation)
LEVEL 1

Level 1 begins with modules covering construction basics and a study of traditional building techniques, together with an overview of the development of the different styles of building craft and styles in the UK and the various classifications of architecture. There will also be a significant AutoCAD element.
A study trip to Venice is also included.

Work-based learning modules will focus on the controls and processes necessary for a working site and you will also develop your teamwork capabilities.

LEVEL 2

Level 2 will look at modern methods associated with the repair and stabilization of building fabric together with building surveying techniques.You will also study health and safety legislation. In addition, you
will have the opportunity to focus on a particular topic in which you are interested by way of a project-based module.
Work-based modules will build upon those undertaken at Level 1. Students will also have the opportunity to undertake site-based activities at a number of historic conservation projects including the White Tower Restoration Programme (Historic Royal Palaces), Woolwich Military Academy, Canterbury Cathedral and Abbey Mills Pumping Station.
Your work in these modules will be assessed by a personal portfolio showing competences achieved.

OPTIONAL 'TOP-UP' TO BSc(HONS)
DEGREE

You can 'top-up' the foundation degree to a BSc(Hons) Historic Building Conservation degree via a final academic year (or two years part-time). This includes the in-depth study of bulding heritage, building design and historic
building materials. You will also have the opportunity to undertake a work-basedproject tailored to your specific background and experience.

ASSESSMENT DETAILS

You will be assessed by a variety of methods including in-course assignments (reports, computer exercises, laboratory tests, essays)
and examinations. Your work-based assignments will be assessed both by a personal portfolio showing competence achieved, as well as by direct observation of your practical work.

TUITION FORMAT

You are taught through lectures, tutorials and practical classes. Workshop-based classes are major elements of our programme and we offer a huge range of hi-tech, specialist engineering equipment to help you apply theory to practice.
Individual and group projects will also encourage the development of valuable research, teamwork and project management skills.
Course attendance is for one full day per week (9am - 8pm) for two years. This covers the academic modules. In addition, students will be required to record evidence from a working environment to complete the work- based modules.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS /
ADMISSION PROCEDURE

The foundation degree combines academic study with work-based learning. Many of the students on the course will already be working for companies specialising in historic building conservation. Consequently, the entry requirements are less formal than for our honours programme. As a guide, however, we would look for a minimum of 60 points from one 6-unit award or equivalent. Successful entry to the course will also be subject to interview.

WHAT AFTERWARDS?

Following successful completion of the course you will be excellently placed to continue your career within the specialist area of historic building conservation.

Course structure
LEVEL 1

Academic modules
• Historic Buildings Bridging Module
• IT and Graphical Visualization
• History of British Craft and Architecture
• Conservation and the Construction Industry
• Health, Safety and Welfare
Work-based modules
• Assess Work Methods
• Supervise Site Resources
• Implement Health and Safety Systems

LEVEL 2

Academic modules
• Remedial Works
• Measurement and Analysis of Condition
• Management Skills
• Study of Traditional Techniques
• Elective Project
Work-based modules
• Site Control
• Working with People
• Monitor Team Performance

LEVEL 3 (Optional 'top-up' to BSc(Hons))

• Building Heritage
• Building Design
• Work-based Project
• Historic Building Materials
• Building Control
• Critical Practice Project
These are a sample of modules and should
not be regarded as full or definitive.

Subject to Validation