Context/background of project: The fact that this project is addressed at staff already trained in their subject emphasises the need for already trained personnel to keep abreast with new ideas and good practices in their field. The project Staff Training at Heritage Malta entails the participation of already trained technical and restoration staff in enhancing their knowledge regarding the conservation and restoration of wood. Objectives of project: The ongoing improvement of key staff will eventually serve the agency in reducing the need to outsource for services or seek foreign expertise on specific issues related to the conservation and restoration of wood as construction material. - The diagnosis of the causes of deterioration and the selection of the most appropriate preventive measures or methods of conservation and/or restoration of wooden structures. - The national collection includes a number of historical and traditional maritime timber vessels. The conservation/restoration to such artefacts is currently on hold due to the lack of expertise in this area. Participants: 1 restoration architect already involved in the EU funded projects for the restoration of the heritage fabric of Fort St. Angelo and Fort St. Elmo, (and) 1 wood conservator forming part of our conservation division who is currently setting up a new wood conservation lab within our institution and seeking specialised training leading to the treatment of the historical maritime timber vessels in our collection. Description of Activities: Full time attendance by the participants: One restoration architect for a 6 week International Course on Wood Conservation Technology (ICCROM) at the Riksantikvaren (Norwegian Directorate for Cultural Heritage) in Oslo, Norway. One wood restorer for a 5 day intensive course in Traditional Wooden Boat Building at the Boat Building Academy at Lyme Regis, United Kingdom. Methodology: The above courses were chosen as they fall within the current goals of the agency and will be vital for the undertaking of upcoming specialised projects in the field of wood conservation. Selected candidates will be sent to the above institutions for the relevant specialised training. Results, envisaged impact and potential longer term benefits: Specialised interventions require highly skilled staff and specific treatments. As a result of this project, Heritage Malta staff will acquire skills which will equip them to tackle such projects. As mentioned above, the ongoing improvement of key staff will serve the agency in reducing the need to outsource for services or seek foreign expertise on specialised projects.