Nurturing Conservators

The Early Career Paths of Conservation Graduates

The increasing levels of self employment amongst conservators is changing the skills and attributes required for professional development.

Internships provided an important head-start for conservators' careers, with the acquisition of valuable hands-on experience as well as a range of useful contacts and the imprimatur of the host institution.

Despite relatively low wages and great career uncertainty there is a striking commitment amongst these graduates to conserving the nation's heritage. This report presents the results of a comprehensive study undertaken for the Museums & Galleries Commission.