Maintaining the cultural heritage of the craft trades

Acting on behalf of the Federal Government, the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB) has joined forces with the relevant ministries, the social partners and experts from the field of company practice to develop new advanced training regulations which take account of a growing sense of awareness in Germany of the cultural heritage of the craft trades. New advanced training regulations leading to the qualification of “Certified restorer in the craft trades” entered into force on 18 December 2019 to replace around 300 existing regulations which were established by the chambers of crafts and trades in the 1980s.

Cross-cutting areas of activity in the new qualification include the nurturing and passing on of cultural heritage and the further development of methods to retain, restore and preserve it. The main focus with regard to the drawing up of relevant concepts and the implementation, coordination and management of measures is on occupation-specific craft trade techniques, materials and equipment. Measures relating to the prevention of risks and damage are also of significance within this context. The examination comprises a trade-specific and a cross-trade written part, and candidates are also required to complete a project.

This new upgrading training programme in the area of craft trade restoration covers the craft trades of bookbinder, gold and silversmith, engraver, wood sculptor, motor vehicle body and vehicle construction mechanic, vehicle mechanic, painter and varnisher, mason and concrete worker, metal worker, decorative metal worker, organ and harmonium builder, parquet layer, interior decorator, stonemason and sculptor, stuccoist, joiner, watchmaker, gilder and carpenter. Further craft trade areas may be added to the ordinance if necessary. Qualified skilled workers completing the qualification will work at craft trade and restoration companies and at institutions in the public and private sectors.

Candidates must have passed a master craftsman examination and are also required to demonstrate at least one year of practical experience in one of the trades. Exceptionally, admission to the examination may be granted if evidence of possession of the relevant competencies can be provided in another way.

Further information on the new advanced training regulations leading to the qualification of “Certified restorer in the craft trades” is available on the BIBB website at https://www.bibb.de/de/berufeinfo.php/profile/advanced_training/00258/2019 (German only)

Point of contact at BIBB:

Markus Bretschneider, email: bretschneider@bibb.de            

Specimen copy requested if printed.