LAST year South West Lakes Trust was successful in securing funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and a number of other sources to enable 'Burrator Historic and Natural Environment Project' to become a reality. A key part of the project's aim is to extend the learning programme and reach out to a more diverse range of people. During the consultation phase in 2011 it was identified by a number of organisations that there were a lack of practical work experience opportunities available locally for their clients, to either support their studies or for those unemployed looking to refresh their skills and get back into work. To enable this the trust has been working with Hindsite Construction Ltd to provide a number of unique one-week practical work experience placements. Participants have been able to get involved with carrying out consolidation works to two important historic ruins – Lowery Barn and Longstone Manor at Burrator Reservoir. Plymouth-based Prospects Services and Tomorrow's People have been busy promoting the placements and recruiting young people to take up these opportunities. As well as receiving a reference, Ben, who recently completed his placement, said: 'I have learnt how to rake out and prepare stonework, remove capping, mix lime mortar, winch heavy equipment and move around on scaffolding safely. This experience will help me as I continue to look for work.' A spokesperson for Hindsite Construction Ltd said 'We are really enjoying working on the Heritage Project at Burrator. We have never been able to host work experience students before so this has been a unique learning opportunity for us too. 'It has been good to see how the young people gain confidence and develop over their time with us, learning new skills and becoming more work ready. We didn't realise how hard it is for young people to get practical work experience and think these opportunities will stand them in good stead.' If you would like more information or would like to get involved contact Emily Cannon on 01822 855700 or e-mail [email protected]">[email protected]