The latest recruits (three architects and a surveyor) to a unique training scheme for young architecture and building professionals are just about to set off on a journey of discovery to gain first-hand experience of conservation skills and building crafts.

This prestigious and highly regarded scheme, now running for nearly 80 years, has no parallel in the world of conservation.

With growing concern at the lack of skilled professionals with the knowledge and understanding needed to deal sensitively with historic buildings, SPAB is convinced that the best way to learn about construction methods, materials and the range of repair methods available today is out on site.

The SPAB Lethaby Scholarship is awarded annually to up to four young architects, building surveyors or structural engineers who have completed their college-based training and have a demonstrable enthusiasm for historic building conservation. For the next six months the Scholars will travel throughout the country together meeting and staying with fellow architects and craftspeople working on historic sites and in workshops and studios throughout the British Isles. The aim is for the Scholars to gain direct hands-on experience guided by experts in the field.

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Former SPAB Lethaby Scholars include Ptolemy Dean and Marianne Suhr who appeared as the 'ruin detectives' on BBC's poplar Restoration series. Other SPAB Scholars are today among the UK’s leading conservation experts, caring for many of the most significant buildings in Britain - some are cathedral architects, some look after palaces, great country houses, National Trust houses and English Heritage sites.

The Scholarship is a demanding and rigorous educational award designed to foster excellence and promote understanding of the unique skills and crafts that continue to underpin our built heritage.

Philip Venning, Secretary of The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings said: "The SPAB Scholarship is special. In fact, it remains an absolutely unique opportunity in the conservation world. It has been very gratifying to see former Scholars going on to take up significant roles and positions, spreading the message of the importance of sensitive repair.

"We are delighted to send our 2009 Scholars out on the trail and confident that they will enjoy equal success and satisfaction both in the months ahead and in their future careers."

In the next few days the group will head off on their first expedition to St Michaels Mount in Cornwall, where they learn the art of dry stone walling.

(GK/JM)