Now accepting applications for Heritage Conservation Diploma Program
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95% Graduate Employment Rate
Internationally Renowned Faculty
Experiential Hands-on Education
Personalized Learning Outcomes
WELCOME TO WILLOWBANK
Willowbank is a unique career college in Canada and has been on the vanguard of heritage conservation and the adaptive reuse of existing buildings since 2006. We are the Canadian headquarters of INTBAU, a global network promoting traditional building, architecture, and urbanism.
The Willowbank Mission: as an innovative institution is to shape new approaches to the stewardship of historic places and sustainable communities through a model balancing the theoretical and practical. Its multi-disciplinary, experiential curriculum educates a new generation of leaders in the field of heritage conservation who are able to understand complex challenges across disciplines, from design firms to skilled trades to community development.
Our unique Three-Year Diploma program provides students with a professional network that can take their career path in many directions. Coursework focuses on developing skills and knowledge related to conserving our built and cultural heritage. Our focus on providing a well-rounded education in heritage conservation and sustainability is made possible by the exceptional faculty practitioners who came from across Canada, the United States, and Denmark.
NEWS
Welcoming new and returning students to the Willowbank campus
Wednesday 4 September, 2024
Yesterday we were delighted to welcome the class of 2025 and 2027 to the Willowbank campus. New and returning students met with their peers, staff, faculty and Indigenous community facilitator and Board members. The orientation took place in the drystone building and those in attendance were left moved and inspired by the words before all from Marie Bowering. A powerful and uplifting message from the Board was shared, and President Dr. Faisal Arain delivered a warm and practical welcome. Third year students shared their highlights and sage advice following their time at Messors School and The King’s Foundation this Summer ~ thanks to the Humeniuk Scholarship at Willowbank: Unleashing Minds - Transforming Lives. Students then toured the Indigenous Love Garden and the Willowbank Estate, which looked particularly spectacular with the sun pouring through the sash windows. The positive energy was palpable, and we thank everyone who has helped Willowbank get to this place of strength. We look forward to watching these passionate students grow as they embark on their Diploma in Heritage Conservation at Willowbank School of Restoration Arts - Canada’s premier heritage conservation school.
Humeniuk Scholarship sparks new heritage perspectives for Willowbank students in Europe
Friday 30 August, 2024
In February, Willowbank School of Restoration Arts unveiled a tremendous investment from the Humeniuk Foundation: a $200,000 donation to the School. This five-year scholarship program was created to help students spend a summer at a top European heritage summer school. The scholarship’s official title - the Humeniuk Scholarship at Willowbank: Unleashing Minds, Transforming Lives - certainly lived up to its promise!
Four Willowbank students were awarded the Humeniuk Scholarship at Willowbank, receiving a $10,000 bursary covering tuition, travel, and modest living costs. July saw two students attend Messors Art Conservation and Restoration workshop in Italy, while the other two students attended the King’s Foundation Summer School at Dumfries House in Scotland, where students develop their knowledge of traditional architecture, design, building and repair techniques.
When asked about her experience at Messors School, student Claire Brinkworth responded stating,
“Where to start, this trip is a time in my life that I will truly cherish and remember forever, it was honestly the best month of my life. The Messors program is an experience that I wish everyone could do at least once in their lives.” The experience broadened her perspective on conservation worldwide, and provided clarity on career possibilities as a conservationist.
These are exactly the outcomes and benefits that Andrew Humeniuk, Executive Director of the Humeniuk Foundation and The Brown Homestead in St Catharines, believed that this scholarship would create, stating,
"In our experience, the summer schools allow them invaluable access to additional perspectives and knowledge that benefit them in their careers and are also shared with their peers, Willowbank and the heritage sector itself.”
Student Bailey Sprenger was equally inspired by the experience at Messors and its global instructors and colleagues, commenting,
“I walk away from the Messor’s experience with a changed perspective on heritage. That is, that materials need to be preserved, not only because of aesthetics, but for their value. For the understanding they provide, not only because they are part of the past. Conservation is part of the future, and I am humbled and inspired to be a part of that future.”
Creating and learning were also at the heart of the King’s Foundation program. Student Julia Hodgson shared that it was an honour to be enveloped in so much passion for preserving the intangible heritage – whether that be stone carving, heather thatching or tile vaulting. She added,
“I feel very grateful to my instructors for their willingness to share their experiences, formulas, and life’s work.”
Willowbank President Dr. Faisal Arain said the Humeniuk Scholarship has given students access to world-class heritage training. This adds yet another layer to the Willowbank experience, and broadens the depth of knowledge from the diploma program. We extend our sincere gratitude to the Humeniuk Foundation. Read more here.
Program Map
Click the link below to view the Heritage Conservation Diploma program map which details the structure for the three year program including courses and the third year requirement (internship or research project).
Willowbank Program Map - Diploma in Heritage Conservation
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Virtual Open House, Tuesday August 6: Heritage Conservation Diploma at Willowbank
We're pleased to be holding our third and final virtual open house for prospective students interested in learning more about our three-year Heritage Conservation Diploma at Willowbank School of Restoration Arts. The session will be held on Tuesday 6 August, 7.30 - 9.00 PM EST. The deadline for applications for our September start has been extended to Friday 16 August.
This session will be an ideal opportunity for those keen to learn more, or have their questions addressed on the program and application process.
Agenda:
*Katie Houghton to address the history of the site and School
*Dr Faisal Arain to share program structure, curriculum, outcomes and careers
*Garrett France-Wyllie - Alumni, Faculty and Heritage Planner - to speak to his Willowbank experience and how it has shaped his career
* Katie to address scholarships, bursaries, grants and European Summer Schools, and advise on application process (applications due Friday 16 August at 5.00 PM EST for September start).
Please share with any potential individuals who you think could benefit from learning more about Canada's premier School for heritage conservation.
Register your interest here : https://bit.ly/45Tji0r
Virtual link for meeting: https://bit.ly/4eSzLX5
Willowbank: proudly training the heritage conservators of the future.
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Exploring partnerships with the School of Horticulture/Niagara Parks Commission and Willowbank
From left to right: David Adames, CEO, Niagara Parks Commission, Charles Hunter Director of Horticulture, Niagara Parks Commission, Dr. Faisal Arain, President Willowbank School of Restoration Arts and Steve Barnhart, Senior Director of Planning, Environment and Culture, Niagara Parks Commission.
On Tuesday 21 May, 2024, Willowbank President Dr. Faisal Arain was invited to join David Adames, CEO, Niagara Parks Commission, and meet with his team, including Steve Barnhart (Senior Director of Planning, Environment and Culture) and Charles Hunter (Director of Horticulture) at the School of Horticulture. Together they discussed the unique diploma programs that both Schools offer, and also had a walking tour of the School of Horticulture’s beautiful campus. Numerous potential collaborations between the School of Horticulture/ Niagara Parks Commission and Willowbank were discussed, including joint student projects, and internship opportunities. We look forward to formalising potential collaboration opportunities in the near future!
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His Majesty King Charles III retains Royal Patronage at Willowbank
The School of Restoration Arts at Willowbank is extremely honoured to receive this international level of endorsement
In May 2014, His Majesty King Charles III - The former Prince of Wales - agreed to be The School of Restoration Arts' Royal Patron. The royal patronage was announced during His Majesty’s 17th visit to Canada, and granted on the advice of the Government of Canada. Royal patronage recognises the achievements of organisations and the contributions of different sectors of Canada’s public life. It also reflects the areas of personal interest to His Majesty, of which Willowbank’s approach to bridging heritage with sustainability, is just one.
"Willowbank is devoted to the shift towards a more ecological, sustainable approach. My aim is to support and encourage these kinds of approaches." Noted His Majesty on his decision to be the School’s Royal Patron in 2014.
Exactly ten years after Willowbank first received royal patronage, in mid-May - marking the first anniversary of Their Majestie’s Coronation - we received a letter from The Principal Private Secretary to The King and Queen, The Rt. Hon. Sir Clive Alderton K.C.V.O.
This letter informed Willowbank of the completion of review of the Patronages of The Late Queen, The former Prince of Wales and The former Duchess of Cornwall, stating,
“Following a thorough analysis of over one thousand organisations, His Majesty would be delighted to retain the Patronage of The Willowbank School of Restoration Arts.”
We are ecstatic that His Majesty continues to see value in the Willowbank mission. For The School of Restoration Arts, this patronage means a link with established initiatives, including the King’s Foundation.
Ten years on, this partnership continues to thrive; two of our students are heading to the Foundation’s Summer School this Summer to develop their knowledge of traditional architecture, design, building and repair techniques (thanks to generous investment from The Humeniuk Foundation).
President of The School of Restoration Arts, Dr. Faisal Arain, shared his joy at His Majesty's continuing endorsement of the School, noting,
“The royal patronage strengthens our diploma program’s core aim to combine heritage conservation with environmental awareness, and creative design and development. These distinct three specialized domains are brought together at Willowbank to create a holistic approach to the creation of healthy communities and sustainable practices.”
His Majesty's choice to retain Patronage of The Willowbank School of Restoration Arts is a tremendous honour. We are very grateful for his public support, and look forward to developing this relationship further.
A special thanks also to the vast Willowbank community of whom there are many members who at some point in the past or present, have advocated for the Willowbank mission, and helped put Willowbank on the map.
Willowbank: proudly training the heritage conservators of tomorrow.
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Virtual Open House, Thursday 16 May: Heritage Conservation Diploma at Willowbank
We're thrilled to be hosting our second virtual open house for anyone interested in learning more about our three-year Heritage Conservation Diploma at Willowbank School of Restoration Arts. The session will be held on Thursday 16 May, 7.30 - 8.30 PM EST. The deadline for applications for our September start is 31 May - which is fast upon us!
This session will address how the School of Restoration Arts came to be, as well as its program map, curriculum, careers, scholarships, bursaries, Summer Schools and more.
Please share with any potential individuals who you think could benefit from learning more about Canada's premier School for heritage conservation.
Virtual link for meeting:
https://bit.ly/3UGVdGn
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Grimsby Historical Society Speaker Series presents Dr. Faisal Arain
Dr. Faisal Arain, President of Willowbank School of Restoration Arts, to address guests at the Grimsby Historical Society and discuss how Willowbank contributes to the restoration sector. More details here and below:
President Dr. Faisal Arain explores opportunities for Willowbank students with Niagara-On-The-Lake Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa
22 April 2024
Willowbank President Dr. Arain met with Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa and they discussed numerous potential collaborations between the Town of NOTL and the Willowbank School of Restoration Arts, including industry internship opportunities for our third year students.
They also discussed the Heritage Conservation Diploma program and the upcoming academic year starting September 2024. Lord Mayor Zalepa shared his appreciation for the program, its delivery structure and relevance to the heritage conservation sector. Lord Mayor Zalepa also invited Bruce Zvaniga, Chief Administrative Office (CAO) of the Town of NOTL, to join the discussions. Together they agreed to explore potential collaboration opportunities in the near future, so watch this space for exciting developments that will benefit our students and the wider community!
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Heritage Sector Employs All 2024 Willowbank Grads
11 April 2024
Saturday 6 April saw Willowbank’s class of 2024 graduate, with all ten students now working in the heritage sector. The graduates of the Heritage Conservation Program represent a diverse array of backgrounds and experiences. Together they are united through their passion for embracing the connections of our built, natural, and cultural resources.
The graduation took place on Saturday 6 April in the beautiful Bright Parlour at Willowbank. Past Chair and Board Member, Patrick Little, welcomed guests to yet another successful graduation at the esteemed School of Restoration Arts.
Marie Bowering, Indigenous Community Connections Facilitator and Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa gathered with us to honour the achievements of our graduates and to wish them success in their future. Valedictorian Charlie Porter delivered a poignant, reflective speech and his parting words capture the Willowbank philopsophy wholly,
“We leave this institution as stewards of our cultural heritage, caretakers of our built environment, and advocates for the preservation of Canada’s history. Whether we find ourselves physically restoring historic buildings and their materials; planning for the future of Canada’s heritage, or advocating for heritage conservation policy, our experience at Willowbank will be indelible.”
The pride amongst students was palpable.
The Faculty address was delivered by Bianca Verrecchia, CAHP, Intermediate Heritage Planner at the Town of Grimsby and Willowbank Alumni. Bianca reflected on the academic achievements of the graduates and the profound impact they will have on the preservation field, noting,
“As Willowbank graduates you understand that heritage is not static; it evolves, adapts and reflects the diversity and richness of our past and present.”
Bianca also welcomed the graduates to the Willowbank alumni community, noting that their time at Willowbank will be forever known as the ‘good old days.’
The keynote address, delivered by David Adames, CEO of Niagara Parks Commission, highlighted how essential the Heritage Conservation Diploma Program is to our built and cultural heritage, right here in Niagara and beyond. David stressed the importance of cultural stewardship and also shared impressive updates on the restoration and adaptive reuse of the historic hydro-power generating stations in Niagara Falls – further demonstrating the significance and genuine need for skills learnt through Willowbank’s Heritage Conservation Diploma. The Diplomas were awarded by Willowbank President, Dr. Faisal Arain and he congratulated each graduate on their accomplishments. A bustling reception hosted by our event partner 124 on Queen, was then held in the halls.
We commend the Class of 2024 and extend sincere gratitude towards the phenomenal Faculty network at Willowbank who inspire and educate our students, helping to ensure that our cultural and built heritage continues to thrive for generations to come.
We are also pleased to share that we are still accepting applications to our esteemed three-year Heritage Conservation Diploma, for a September 2024 intake. Anyone interested in heritage conservation and sustainability is encouraged to reach out to learn more about this entirely unique Program.
Email willowbank@willowbank.ca or visit www.willowbank.ca Please help us to spread the word!
Willowbank: training the heritage conservators of tomorrow.
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Launching the Humeniuk Scholarship at Willowbank: Unleashing minds, transforming lives
We have some very exciting news to share over at Willowbank HQ, and with it being #heritageweek it feels even more timely!
We are delighted to announce that the Humeniuk Foundation signed a five-year agreement to provide a $200,000 bursary for up to four Willowbank students to attend a European summer school annually.
Students will be able to attend either Messors in Italy or the King’s Foundation Summer School, which takes place at Dumfries House in Scotland and in London.
This five-year agreement is a tremendous investment in the School of Restoration Arts, its future, and that of its students. Andrew Humeniuk, executive director of the Humeniuk Foundation and the Brown Homestead in St. Catharines remarked how the summer schools afforded students the following,
“In our experience, the summer schools allow them invaluable access to additional perspectives and knowledge that benefit them in their careers and are also shared with their peers, Willowbank and the heritage sector itself,” he said.
To read more about this progressive partnership that supports the sustainability of Willowbank, please follow this link which covers this exciting news story in full.
We are extremely grateful to the Humeniuk Foundation for their continued investment in our mission, and we look forward to following the students on their journeys to Europe over the next five years.
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Willowbank Venue Rental and Weddings
Photographer, Creative Director, Concept Creator & Co-stylist: Lisa Vigliotta Photography lisavigliottaphotography
Land Acknowledgement
Willowbank is located on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg, Ojibway/Chippewa and Haudenosaunee peoples. This territory is covered by the Upper Canada Treaties and is within the land protected by the Dish With One Spoon Wampum agreement. Today this gathering place is home to many First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples and acknowledging reminds us that our great standard of living is directly related to the resources and friendship of Indigenous people. (Source: DSBN)
