AN award-winning Dumfries apprentice stonemason is urging locals to help protect Scotland’s heritage as new stonemasonry apprenticeship opportunities open.
Kody Burns was named Historic Environment Scotland (HES) Apprentice Banker Mason of the Year in 2025, after completing his first year of training.
The 19-year-old discovered stonemasonry whilst searching for a hands-on, creative career.
The Stonemasonry and Banker Masonry apprenticeship programme has enabled Kody to gain experience at heritage sites such as Holyrood Abbey and Caerlaverock Castle. Now in his second year, he is working towards his SCQF level 6 qualification under the guidance and mentorship of HES’s lead mason in Dumfries, Johnnie Cunningham.
HES has announced two new stonemasonry apprenticeship opportunities in Dumfries and Galloway – a rare chance to join the team working on some of the region’s most iconic historic sites.
Kody said, “Before I started the course, I didn’t really know what stonemasonry was but after watching some videos of people dressing stones, I was fascinated and couldn’t wait to learn more. The course has been very rewarding, and I love sharing photos and videos of my work with friends and family. I’ve given friends books to help them understand more about the skills and it’s great that some of them have applied to join the course next year.
“I’m encouraging other young people across Scotland to explore the traditional skills apprenticeships on offer and consider a career in the heritage sector. Scotland’s history is in your hands, this is your chance to make your mark.”
Johnnie Cunningham added, “We’re so proud of Kody and the progress he’s made over the last year. He’s taken to the skills so naturally and he’s already a great stonemason. Being surrounded by so many amazing heritage sites here in Dumfries, we’re really trying to boost the skill in the area and beyond Scotland. We’re calling on young people to consider traditional skills as a career path, to spread the word on this trade, just like Kody.”
HES will be holding an Open Day at MacLellan’s Castle on Tuesday March 31, where stonemasons will be giving demonstrations and talking about their roles. For those inspired by Kody’s journey, and eager to apply for these apprenticeships, details can be found here.
