From minor cracks in objects to significant water leaks, a wide range of conservation issues can impact a heritage institution’s collection.
But what if your institution doesn’t have a dedicated conservator? What measures can non-specialists take to prevent damage and protect their collections?
This course provides an essential introduction to collections care, offering practical conservation training for those working in heritage institutions without an in-house conservator.
Who is this course for?
This programme is designed for anyone working or volunteering in heritage institutions, as well as individuals with an interest in conservation. No prior experience is required.
By the end of the programme, attendees will:
- Understand common conservation issues that affect collections
- Learn about agents of deterioration and how to mitigate risks
- Develop the skills to carry out preventive conservation within their expertise
- Learn basic remedial conservation techniques appropriate to their level of knowledge
- Know how to respond to emergencies or collection damage
- Recognise the role of professional conservators and their work
- Understand the limits of their own skills and know when to seek professional conservation support
Programme
Session 1: Principles of Conservation and Ethical Guidelines (Online – Zoom)
Date: 6 November 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM BST
- Introduction to conservation principles and ethics
- Understanding agents of decay
- Managing the museum environment
- Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Session 2: Materials and Risk – Handling & Display (Online – Zoom)
Date: 13 November 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM BST
- Risk management in collections care
- Documentation and planning for conservation
- Understanding material types:
- Wooden objects, stone, metals, paper, paintings, natural history specimens, ceramics, and mixed media
- Finding and collaborating with conservation professionals
Session 3: Conservation in Emergencies (Online – Zoom)
Date: 20 November 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM BST
- Emergency planning and salvage techniques
- Documentation and post-incident assessment
Session 4: Practical Workshop (In-Person – Birmingham Museum Collection Centre)
Date: 27 November 2025
Time: 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM BST (Prompt 10:00 AM start)
Location: Birmingham Museum Collection Centre
Parking available | Accessible by train
- Hands-on practice in conservation techniques
- Condition assessments and monitoring
- Safe cleaning methods for different materials
- Basic remedial conservation skills
- Ethical considerations in practical conservation
- Working with professional conservators
- Tour of the Birmingham Museum Collection Centre!
Important Information
- The first three sessions will take place online via Zoom. The final session will be held in-person in Birmingham.
- Please ensure you can attend all four sessions before booking.
- All attendees will receive a certificate of completion at the end of the programme.
- After completing the course, attendees will have a stronger understanding of how to care for collections, recognise the limits of their own knowledge, and know when to bring in a professional conservator.
