Joe Milne – stonemason

Winner of the 2018 HCA/QEST Scholarship

Stonemason Joe Milne was awarded an HCA/QEST Training Bursary. After learning stonemasonry at Weymouth College, Joe applied for the Advanced Stonemasonry Apprenticeship at Exeter Cathedral. Since working for the Cathedral he has learned to work multiple complex stones, fixed them in place on the building, produce accurate drawings, complex templates and moulds and intricate carvings.

The QEST/HCA bursary will enable Joe to complete the ‘Professional Development Diploma in Historic Building Conservation and Repair’ at West Dean College. The diploma features leading practitioners in their respective fields and learning hands-on using a purpose built ruinette as well as collaboration with other participants and specialists. Joe hopes that completing this diploma will take his skills beyond the standard required to complete his apprenticeship, improve his usefulness to the team and his ability to look after all aspects of the cathedral’s conservation needs. He hopes to impart the knowledge gained to the rest of the team and potentially a new apprentice once his apprenticeship is complete.

“The diploma represents an opportunity to learn areas of stonemasonry and other craft skills related to the conservation of the cathedral that would not normally be available to me through the day to day work carried out here. I believe it is essential to continue to study new courses and experience other workshops to bring back different perspectives on conservation so that I can continually develop and enhance my craft skills.”

Photo: Deborah Pocock from QEST and Joe Milne at the 2018 HCA conference