Preparing You for Postgraduate Study in Art Conservation

Designed for aspiring conservators seeking to pursue postgraduate study in fine art conservation, our two-week intensive course provides an opportunity to gain valuable practical experience, develop essential skills and strengthen your portfolio ahead of Master's degree applications.

Set within a beautiful period property in the heart of Northumberland, The Art Conservation Academy offers an immersive learning experience combining specialist tuition, hands-on conservation practice and individual guidance in an intimate studio environment.

Learn Through Practical Experience

At the heart of the programme is the opportunity to work directly with genuine paintings under expert supervision, gaining first-hand insight into the techniques, materials and professional considerations involved in the conservation of fine art.

Through a carefully structured combination of practical workshops, demonstrations and guided independent work, students will be introduced to fundamental conservation principles, including the examination, documentation and treatment of paintings.

With an emphasis on developing practical confidence, observational skills and an understanding of professional conservation practice, the course provides a foundation for those preparing to enter this highly specialised field.

Expert Tuition and Individual Guidance

The programme is led by an experienced fine art conservator with an extensive background in private conservation practice and over 20 years of post-graduate teaching experience.

Small class sizes ensure that each student benefits from individual attention, tailored feedback and opportunities to discuss their academic ambitions and professional interests.

Students will also receive guidance on documenting their practical work and presenting their developing skills and experience within a portfolio suitable for consideration during postgraduate applications.

Who Is This Course For?

This programme is particularly suited to:

• Graduates and undergraduates in Fine Art, Art History and related disciplines considering a Master's degree in conservation.

• International students seeking practical experience before applying to postgraduate conservation programmes in the UK or abroad.

• Prospective applicants wishing to develop their understanding of conservation practice and build confidence in a studio environment.

• Individuals exploring a professional career in the conservation and restoration of fine art.

No previous professional conservation experience is required. The programme is designed to introduce aspiring conservators to the discipline while providing meaningful practical experience in preparation for further study.

Your First Step Towards a Career in Conservation

Postgraduate conservation programmes can be highly competitive, with applicants often seeking opportunities to demonstrate practical aptitude, technical understanding and a genuine commitment to the profession.

Our intensive course is designed to help bridge the gap between academic study and practical conservation experience, enabling students to explore the discipline, develop their abilities and approach future applications with greater confidence.

Beyond the studio, students will have the opportunity to experience the historic surroundings and beautiful countryside of Northumberland, making their time at the Academy both academically rewarding and personally memorable.

Duration: Two weeks
Location: Northumberland, United Kingdom
Format: In-person, small-group practical tuition
Suitable for: UK and international students preparing for postgraduate conservation study

Course Fees & Payment Options

Total Course Fee: £3,250

To secure your place, an initial £350 deposit is required. This will be deducted from the total course fee.

Students may then choose between two flexible payment options.

Option 1 — Payment in Full

• Initial deposit: £350

• Remaining balance: £2,900

Option 2 — Three Instalments

• Initial deposit: £350

• First instalment: £1,000

• Second instalment: £1,000

• Final instalment: £900

Total: £3,250

Instalment deadlines will be confirmed once course dates are announced. All fees must be paid in full before the course begins.

Course Dates: To Be Confirmed

The deposit is intended to be non-refundable, subject to applicable statutory cancellation and refund rights and the Academy's booking terms.