A New Goal For Alice!

A 30 year-old Sheffield University graduate  has landed a coveted place on an English Heritage scheme to nurture a new generation of conservation professionals.

And the future couldn't be in safer hands!

 Alice Ullathorne beat off nearly 400 applicants for one of just seven places on the new Historic Environment Traineeship (HET) scheme and will spend the next two years working with English Heritage in Yorkshire.

The initiative aims to equip people with the all-round skills required to work as conservation managers and help protect the nation's priceless heritage in future years.

But when Alice isn't striving to save our heritage, she's blocking shots and catching crosses.  In her spare time she's a mad keen footballer and over recent years she's played in goal for Sheffield Wednesday and Sheffield FC, the world's oldest soccer club. 

She said: "The job is a great chance to expand my knowledge. By definition historic buildings and landscapes are irreplaceable and once they are gone, they are gone for ever.  That's why it's such a privilege to take up this role.  All I need now is a new football club to make it a perfect year, so I'm open to offers!"

Alice studied archaeological science at Sheffield University and went on to gain a master's degree in landscape archaeology.  Before taking up her new posting she worked as a survey archaeologist for the Peak District National Park.  As part her English Heritage training she'll learn more about the planning system, protecting listed buildings and landscapes and exploring solutions for sites at risk.

Her work experience will be focused on South Yorkshire. According to English Heritage the county has 217 grade I and II* listed buildings and 156 scheduled ancient monuments.

Maddy Jago, English Heritage Regional Director for Planning and Development, added: "Major strides are being made in the region to train more traditional craftspeople like masons, glassworkers and carpenters.  But it’s equally important that we invest in tomorrow's conservation managers. Trainees may eventually work full-time for English Heritage, but many will fill key roles in a wide range of organisations, including local authorities.  They will have a vital part to play."

For more information on next year's HET scheme and how to apply send an email with your contact details to train@english-heritage.org.uk or log on at www.english-heritage.org.uk