Cathedrals’ Workshop Fellowship Students Gain Rare Insight into Notre-Dame Restoration Project in Exclusive Study Tour
In an exceptional opportunity, 18 students training as stonemasons at 12 Anglican cathedrals across the UK, accompanied by three teaching staff, recently took part in a once-in-a-lifetime study tour to the iconic Notre-Dame de Paris.
This exclusive visit, which was generously funded by the Worshipful Company of Masons (WCM), gave the students an unparalleled behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s most significant heritage restoration projects, following the devastating fire of 2019.
The group had the privilege of touring the roof of the cathedral, which has been under intensive restoration in a bid to return the historic building to its former glory. Students were able to witness the incredible craftsmanship, technical innovation, and dedication that have gone into the restoration efforts, all of which directly complement their own training in stone conservation.
In addition to their time on the roof, the group also explored the interior of the cathedral, which remains a beacon of historic beauty, now in the process of being carefully restored to preserve its cultural significance. The tour, which involved shared learning experiences and the exchange of technical insights, provided a unique international perspective on heritage conservation.
French representatives involved in the Notre-Dame restoration project expressed admiration for the CWF students, with one commenting: “We are most impressed by the seriousness and enthusiasm of the CWF. The students’ passion and commitment to the craft are evident, and we are delighted to have them as part of this exchange of knowledge.”
Michael Sheppard, Executive Director of the Cathedrals’ Workshop Fellowship (CWF), said:
“This study tour has been a truly inspirational and educational experience for our students. It has given them the chance to see the remarkable restoration work taking place at Notre-Dame, and gain insights into the international techniques and standards used in preserving such an important building. The opportunity to learn from craftspeople in France, and to see their incredible efforts, is invaluable for our students and will directly benefit their ongoing training at cathedrals across the UK. We are deeply grateful to the Worshipful Company of Masons for their generous funding of this study tour.”
The trip to Notre-Dame de Paris has left a lasting impression on the students, who are currently training as stonemasons in some of the most prestigious cathedral workshops in the UK. Many of the students shared their personal reflections on the experience, with one commenting: “It was a privilege to be part of this group and see such an iconic project up close. This trip has provided me with invaluable skills and knowledge that I can apply to my own work.”
Another student said: “This has been an amazing, life-changing experience that I will never forget. It’s opened my eyes to the scale and importance of heritage conservation and inspired me to continue developing my skills.”
The study tour to Notre-Dame de Paris is part of CWF’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality, hands-on training for the next generation of craftspeople dedicated to the conservation and repair of historic buildings.