Museum/gallery conservator : Training

There is no formal structure to training and most conservators learn on the job, initially taking one-year internships or working as an assistant to a fully experienced conservator to gain practical experience.

Work-based learning via The Institute of Conservation (Icon)  internship scheme (available through funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund ) is open to both recent graduates and others with relevant skills.

Substantial work experience is needed before a conservator is considered competent. The principal professional qualification for conservators is the Professional Accreditation of Conservators-Restorers (PACR) scheme, which ensures that a conservator is a fully qualified and capable professional, applying a common standard across the profession regardless of specialism. This is usually applied for after five years' experience for those with a conservation degree or postgraduate conservation qualification (or after eight to ten years' experience working in conservation, including practical training). For further details, see the Conservation Register  and the PACR section of the Icon website.

Icon also provides advice about training and professional development, including a directory of short courses.

Other specialist professional qualifications are available, including fellowship of The British Association of Paintings Conservator-Restorers and membership of the British Antique Furniture Restorers' Association (BAFRA) .