A GROUP of construction students have embarked on an exciting new project at the National Waterways Museum, restoring one of the canal barges to its former glory.
The students, who are all taking the painting and decorating BTEC diploma at West Cheshire College, began working at the Ellesmere Port museum at the beginning of October and as well as the barge have been renovating and painting windows, doors, toilets and machinery.
The museum has a unique fleet of historic boats, which take people on trips from the docks as well as tell the story of Britain’s canals and waterways.
Course tutor Colin Wilson said: “It’s really exciting for the students to be working at the museum as not only are they are getting the experience of a real working environment but they are also helping a national charity that relies on volunteers.
“We have 15 students currently working at the museum who are thrilled to be assisting on this project.
“Not only are they putting their skills to good use, they have the added bonus of knowing that their work will be appreciated by the general public.”
The one-year course in painting and decorating provides all the skills needed to get into the industry, with practical experience in interior and finishing jobs, undercoats and glosses, emulsion paint, the preparation of surfaces, signwriting and paper hanging.
The college also organises a variety of real working projects as well as demonstrations from equipment specialists to give firsthand experience of the profession.
For more information on the course, call the college hotline on 01244 670600.
