Heritage manager : Training

The larger national bodies and local authorities run in-house training courses covering areas such as IT and management skills, as well as courses and conferences on heritage issues. Training may also be available through local consortia of heritage organisations and museums. Most of the larger heritage organisations encourage studying qualifications that will aid career development.

If you do not have a postgraduate qualification on entry, you may be encouraged to undertake a part-time Masters in heritage management or museum studies whilst working. Employers occasionally offer help with funding or study time.

The Museums Association (MA)  maintains a database of training courses and continuing professional development (CPD) events. It encourages members working in the sector to obtain the AMA (Associateship of the Museums Association). The AMA is the MA's professional development programme and takes on average two to three years to complete. The aim is to take responsibility for your own development, with the support of a mentor, by developing job skills and the core competences needed for a career in the heritage sector.

The Association for Heritage Interpretation (AHI)  also runs short courses and training events, as does the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) .

Specialist providers include the:

• Group for Education in Museums (GEM)
• Society of Museum Archaeologists  
• Institute for Archaeologists (IfA)

Smaller heritage attractions may not have the scope or money to offer regular training. Joining a local heritage group may provide you with access to the training opportunities and networks you will need to progress.