The National Trust is Europe’s leading conservation charity, responsible for caring for significant textile collections, across more than 300 historic houses open to the public in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Textile objects provide colour and warmth to interiors and play a significant role in the presentation of historic properties.
The Trust’s textile collections comprise over 150,000 items which includes more than 700 tapestries, at least 20 state beds and 40,000 pieces of fashion, dress and accessories. We are committed to developing the next generation of conservators through training, internships and student placements. Textile conservation also offers great opportunities to engage audiences, through a variety of media channels, in person tours, and interpretation of our work at our properties.
This two-year fixed-term internship has been made possible through a collaboration with NEXT.
What it's like to work here
The Textile Conservation Studio provides training and supports collections management and undertakes textile projects for Trust properties. It also offers its services to external clients. The Studio is situated at Oulton Street on the Blickling Estate, approximately 14 miles north of Norwich. It is housed a large, converted barn providing excellent treatment facilities. Many challenging projects have been completed at the studio, ranging from state beds and the 25-year Gideon Tapestry project at Hardwick Hall to preparing historic dress for inclusion in 100 Things to Wear (NT publication 2025). It is a full-time role, and you will be based at the studio with opportunities to visit and undertake work at National Trust properties.
About the Role
You'll be a recent conservation graduate looking to build on your practical skills in the specialist area of textile conservation. You'll undertake practical treatments, under supervision, both in the studio and on site at properties, guided by Icon’s Professional Standards. You'll assist and support studio staff with the organisation and maintenance of equipment and undertake preventive conservation activities within the studio. You are passionate about conservation, and will bring drive, commitment and a willingness to learn. This role provides a great opportunity to develop a career as a textile conservator You can view the full profile for this role by following the link below (See: How to Apply). You don't need to have all the knowledge, skills and experience listed in the role profile; this is just to provide a full picture of what’s possible in this role.
About You
To be successful in this role, you'll need to have:
- A recognised conservation qualification at degree level or higher.
- A good understanding of textile techniques and excellent needlework skills.
- An understanding of conservation science.
- Demonstrable knowledge and interest in textile history, particularly in the context of open display in historic properties.
- Ability to work flexibly and in a team.
- Ability to organise own time, plan and meet deadlines.
- Good written, digital and verbal communication skills, including public presentations.
- Ability to work at height from scaffold towers and ladders (training will be given).
The National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.
How to Apply
The dates for interviews are to be held, in-person, on the 8th & 9th October 2026.
To access the role profile and see other benefits the National Trust provides for its employees, please visit the National Trust Jobs website and search for ‘Textile Conservation Intern’: Vacancies - National Trust (https://eur01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/GetUrlReputation). You need to ‘Sign up’ on the website to apply.