There are few better opportunities to further a craft career in building conservation than the William Morris Fellowship run by SPAB (The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings).

There are no fees involved. In fact, SPAB provides a bursary to meet travel and living expenses.

Each year up to four successful candidates form a small band travelling together throughout the country learning more about traditional building crafts from masters of the trades.

Many stonemasons have furthered their careers with a William Morris Fellowship and describe the Fellowship as a truly unique and potentially life-changing opportunity.

The Fellowship was started in 1986 as an advanced training programme to encourage and nurture tradespeople employed in the repair of historic buildings.

The six-month practical training is divided into three blocks of two months, enabling the Fellows to return to their employment between each block. During the first two blocks they travel as a group making daily site visits, studying repair projects and meeting professionals, contractors and craftsmen. The final block is devoted to the individual needs and skills of each Fellow in consultation with their employers.

Fellows are usually in their 20s or 30s, but older candidates are not excluded. Candidates must have completed their apprenticeships and demonstrate a high degree of competence.

Applications for the 2013 William Morris Craft Fellowship are invited now.