A major new training programme for professionals in the built environment sector in Wales has launched its full list of courses.

Built Environment Sustainability Training (BEST) is offering flexible, fully subsidised training to develop knowledge and skills in the latest sustainability practices – particularly in construction, energy, waste, and water.

The programme is supported by the European Social Fund, through the Welsh Government and offers fully subsidised courses to people who live or work in one of Wales’ Convergence areas.

BEST, which is based in the Welsh School of Architecture at Cardiff University, aims to put Wales at the forefront of sustainability expertise, and its courses are being offered at various times and locations, including by distance learning and online.

The training is being delivered directly by the Welsh School of Architecture and by specialist external partners including: The Royal Society of Architects in Wales, The Centre for Alternative Technology, Arup, and the Energy Saving Trust.

“We are offering a huge range of courses to people working in the built environment,” said BEST’s Programme Manager, Christine Castle. “These are challenging, but exciting times for the sector, and our courses aim to help meet those challenges by bringing professionals in Wales up to speed with the latest technologies, techniques and regulations in their field.”

The courses delivered by the Welsh School of Architecture are:

Best practice in site waste management;
Designing out waste;
Green (living) roofs and facades;
Low carbon leadership;
Sustainable architecture (covering six courses – Retrofitting for climate change adaptation; The sustainability jigsaw and how it affects you; Passivhaus and other systems; Refurbishment and performance of pre-1919 buildings; The place of home, community and people; Whole-life costing, procurement and contracts);
Building performance and post-occupancy assessment.

Professor Chris Tweed, Head of School at the Welsh School of Architecture, said: “This is a really exciting development for the School – an opportunity for us to share expertise with professionals throughout Wales, as part of this important programme.”

Details of all courses, including when and where they are being delivered, and how to apply, is available on the BEST website www.best.cf.ac.uk

The BEST (Built Environment Sustainability Training) programme is supported by the European Social Fund, through the Welsh Government. It offers flexible, subsidised training courses to people who live or work in one of Wales’ Convergence areas.

Information on courses and how to apply is available from BEST on: 029 2087 0990, email best@cf.ac.uk or visit www.best.cf.ac.uk