We're excited that our new Scottish Qualifications-certified Skills for Heritage course has begun, in cooperation with Keep Scotland Beautiful and Make Your Mark. The course will support participants to achieving a heritage qualification, experience and a reference, which they can use to volunteer or find work.

The course covers a compulsory module, 'Sharing Heritage Stories' (which will include a two-day group placement), as well as two optional modules and a volunteering placement after the course. The placement will be with an organisation that interests the participant and supports their goals.

For their first lesson the group took a trip to the National Museum of Scotland where they considered what makes a good exhibition, see image gallery:

It is intended that students can continue in their chosen placement after the course if they wish. Volunteering will be arranged through Make Your Mark, which works with over 140 heritage organisations across Scotland. Opportunities will therefore have the potential to be very varied, suiting the skills and interests of the individual.

Make Your Mark is currently looking for organisations working with Scotland's history, culture and nature that can offer a welcoming and inclusive volunteering experience. Guidance and practical support will be given. If you think your organisation could help, contact the Make Your Mark Campaign Coordinator, Louise Walker, on hello@makeyourmark.scot.

With thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Historic Environment Scotland and NatureScot's funding.