Principles and Practice: Advanced Skills builds on key conservation skills and concepts introduced in the first year, reinforcing the key concepts of cleaning and support by introducing the theory and practice of advanced textile conservation skills such as the use of adhesive supports, solvency and other cleaning methods. The developing skill set is reinforced by the practical application of conservation treatments to historic textiles, put in context by the concurrent sessions in the two units Conservation in Practice and Deconstructing the Artefact.

15 hours (two and a half days) per week comprising lectures (5 x 2 hours), seminars (14 hours), workshops (19 x 3 hours), supervised studio time (27 x 3 hours) and individual tutorials (3 x 1 hour).

None

Report (3,500 words) 50% and viva (20-minute) 20%

Practical work 30% (continuous assessment).

This course aims to:

■ Provide the student with the opportunity to apply advanced interventive treatment skills used to preserve historic textile artefacts.

■ Introduce the student to the principles and science of advanced interventive conservation treatment approaches and techniques used to preserve historic textile artefacts.

■ Enable the student to apply observation skills, understanding of cultural and ethical contexts and advanced material science knowledge to formulate appropriate treatment strategies.

■ Develop professional and collaborative work practice to an advanced level.

■ Enhance professional skills to communicate effectively for professional practice.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Apply a range of advanced conservation techniques and employ good practical skills.

■ Critically analyse and evaluate textile artefacts to devise treatment proposals appropriate to an artefact's composition, condition and role.

■ Effectively deploy critical reflection and problem-solving skills to inform practice.

■ Employ good workroom practice and competently use a wide range of laboratory tasks in order to ensure efficient, safe and effective use of materials and resources.

■ Work collaboratively and professionally as part of a team to carry out conservation activities e.g. practical projects and using a shared workspace. 

■ Communicate complex scenarios using appropriate terminology and in a professional manner with a range of specialist and general audiences orally and in writing.

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.