I am a twenty seven year old stonemason from Germany and I also study to become a teacher for English and construction. To finish my degree I need to spend at least 90 days living in an English speaking country. Since I do not have a lot of extra money I am looking for a contractor or a masonry company that could hire me for those three months. I have professional experience with stone and I am happy to work hard while I practice my language skills. But I am open to any construction work that helps me meet my university requirements. Does anyone have leads on companies that might need a temporary hand this summer. Do you know if there are specific work visas I should look into before I apply for a short term spot?
Work exchange for a traveling stonemason
- Thread starter rgaetz
- Start date
El VMX
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You should look into the heritage restoration sector in England because there is a high demand for skilled stonemasons right now. Many firms working on old churches or manor houses value the training that German masons receive through the trade schools. It might be easier to find a spot with a smaller family business than a large corporation. They are often more flexible with short term stays. Have you put together a portfolio of your recent stone work to show potential employers.
the reflection
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Make sure you check the visa rules for the UK since they changed after Brexit. Are you still a student? You can also check if they offer a specific temporary work permit or an internship program that you may qualify for.
bigbitez
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I agree with @the reflection
@rgaetz Have you considered Ireland? It is still part of the EU and you have an advantage since you have a German passport. Afaik, there's plenty of stonework out west, especially with traditional dry stone walls and cottage restoration. Are you hoping to find a place that includes housing or are you planning to sort that out yourself?
@rgaetz Have you considered Ireland? It is still part of the EU and you have an advantage since you have a German passport. Afaik, there's plenty of stonework out west, especially with traditional dry stone walls and cottage restoration. Are you hoping to find a place that includes housing or are you planning to sort that out yourself?
icyolaf
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You could also try contacting the Building Crafts College in London or similar UK schools. Afaik, they have connections with contractors who take on students or apprentices for short projects.
Since you're a stonemason from Germany, look into heritage restoration companies in the UK or Ireland. They are usually desperate for people who actually know how to work with stone rather than just laying blocks.
In the UK, look up the National Heritage Training Academy or similar guilds, they might be able to point you toward contractors who specialize in cathedral or castle restoration and are used to international interns
In the UK, look up the National Heritage Training Academy or similar guilds, they might be able to point you toward contractors who specialize in cathedral or castle restoration and are used to international interns
last goodbye
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Just be clear about your skill level when you talk to them. If I am not mistaken, German stonemasonry isn’t always the same as what you’d see in Ireland or Scotland. Good luck!
