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New Award for skilled masons introduced



A new award for stonemasons has been launched by The Worshipful Company of Masons, one of the city of London's oldest livery companies, and Stone Federation Great Britain.

Named The Project Craftsman of the Year, it is for stonemasons with a minimum of five years; post-qualification experience and offers a prize of £500.

It forms part of the 2009 Duke of Gloucester Awards, which are aimed at encouraging high standards in all aspects of stonemasonry.  The existing Improver Mason Award continues, supported solely by the Masons' Company.

Applicants for the new Craftsman of the Year Award need to produce a portfolio of projects, supported by testimony from their employers, architects, surveyors, local authorities or similar bodies.

They must demonstrate experience in site and workshop skills and have the ability to work with and interpret drawings, produce templates, and set out both new build and refurbishment projects.  In addition, they must have a proven record of supervision and management, with experience of managing costs and liaison with design teams, for example.

The Livery Company's Duke of Gloucester Improver Mason Award introduced at the latest of the four-yearly Awards in 2007, is aimed at masons who have completed a recognised apprenticeship and training course to NVQ Level 3 and served as a mason for three to five years after qualification.  Awards of £450 may be given in differing categories, such as carving, banker masonry, paving, moulding and cladding.

Jane Buxey, Chief Executive of Stone Federation Great Britain, says "We already acknowledge the importance and expertise of masons with our Trainee Mason of the Year Award, so it is a genuine pleasure to join with The Worshipful Company of Masons to add our support to the award for the more experienced masons".

David Blake, Chairman of the Masons' Company Craft Awards, said "The expansion of the Duke of Gloucester Awards recognises the importance of continual training and development for stonemasons.  Bringing their craft skills to wider attention acknowledges that an ancient craft still has a vital role in today's technological age".

To download an application form please click here .