Trainee Heritage Lime Plasterer and Natural Building Craftsperson

Details

Location: London and surrounding areas
Position: Full-time, paid employment with workplace-based training

Breathe is a specialist natural building and heritage restoration company working with traditional lime and clay plasters, natural fibre insulation and breathable building materials. They are looking for someone who takes a genuine interest in traditional craftsmanship, historic buildings and sustainable construction, and who wants to develop their skills through practical, hands-on experience.

Their projects involve the restoration of period properties, traditional plastering, the repair of historic building fabric and the installation of natural insulation systems.

What you will learn and work on:

• Traditional lime plastering, including substrate preparation, basecoats, reinforcement and finishing.
• Clay plastering and decorative natural finishes.
• Historic masonry repairs and the removal of inappropriate modern materials.
• Wood fibre, hemp and other natural insulation systems.
• Understanding moisture movement, vapour permeability and the principles of breathable construction.
• Traditional building methods, conservation principles and careful restoration techniques.
• Professional site preparation, safe working practices, organisation and quality control.

Who they are looking for:

• They welcome applicants with experience in plastering, masonry, general construction, conservation or other practical crafts, as well as individuals seeking to establish a career in traditional building.
• Previous lime plastering experience is an advantage but is not essential for this trainee position.
• More important is a genuine interest in learning, attention to detail, reliability, a good work ethic and pride in producing high-quality work.
• Applicants should be comfortable with the physical demands of site work and able to travel to projects across London.

What they offer:

• This is a paid, practical role working alongside experienced tradespeople on real restoration and retrofit projects.
• You will have the opportunity to develop specialist skills, understand the technical reasoning behind traditional building methods and gradually take on greater responsibility as your abilities develop.
• They are particularly interested in people who see heritage craftsmanship and natural building as a long-term career.

How to apply:

• Please send a short introduction to [email protected] explaining your background, any relevant practical experience and why you are interested in working with traditional and natural building materials.
• If available, include photographs or examples of work you have personally undertaken, whether professionally or through training or personal projects.