Historic steam engine runs for first time since 2018

New Lanark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its legacy in social reform and education, is thrilled to announce its latest placement programme, designed to offer students and volunteers opportunities that support and sustain this unique historical site. Rooted in the ideals of Robert Owen, one of New Lanark’s visionary owners, the programme aims to bring education, community service, and heritage preservation together, welcoming new partnerships, skills, and talents into the heart of the community.

Building on Owen’s pioneering work - such as his establishment of the first Infant School- New Lanark’s placement initiative partners with three local higher education institutions, creating tailored learning and placement opportunities across a range of fields. Beginning in January 2025, students will embark on roles including hydro engineering, museum studies, and marketing & tourism, enriching their professional skills while contributing to New Lanark’s mission.

Mairi Nicolson, Head of the Lanarkshire Business School, New College Lanarkshire commented, “We are delighted to be working with New Lanark World Heritage Site and excited to be involved in their work placement programme.   Having the opportunity of a work placement will enrich our Travel and Tourism courses at New College Lanarkshire and allow our students to apply their learning in one of the most significant tourism and heritage sites in Scotland.” 

In addition to the student placements, New Lanark has welcomed 16 new volunteers who bring invaluable enthusiasm and expertise to the site. These dedicated individuals will play a key role across various programmes - from collections care and event support to mechanical maintenance and horticulture. Volunteers recently participated in conservation training as part of Industrial Museums Scotland's Powering Our People initiative, equipping them with specialised skills in preserving New Lanark’s rich history.

One of the most exciting projects underway involves the restoration of New Lanark’s historic Steam Engine, a beloved exhibit built in 1911 by Petrie & Co. Students, volunteers, and staff will have the opportunity to collaborate to restore and operate this magnificent piece of history. Visitors will once again be able to witness the engine in action as part of New Lanark’s commitment to hands-on heritage preservation.

Mrs Terry Joiner, Volunteer commented: “I am a new volunteer at New Lanark and I’m really enjoying the experience. What a privilege to be able to spend time at the site and be able to get to know it better; to be a small part of the story keeping this special place safe for future generations. The staff and fellow volunteers are very friendly, really supportive. There are opportunities to develop skills, but only if I want to. My volunteering day, Tuesday, has become my favourite day of the week. Being retired is lovely but the days can lack shape and purpose. I need a focus to help keep my brain sharp and to keep engaged with the outside world. My week now has structure and a clear purpose without feeling overloaded. I get to talk to new people and share my love of the site with our many visitors. At the moment I’m supporting school groups that visit, but there are lots of other opportunities to be had. That said, to watch children’s faces as they discover how different Anni Macleod’s life was to their own is just magic, it’s keeping me young!”

Additionally, the placement and volunteer programmes are breathing new life into the Roof Garden, a peaceful retreat that was first planted nearly 15 years ago. Skilled gardening volunteers, alongside members of the local Men’s Shed located within the World Heritage Site, are rejuvenating the garden through seasonal planting, biodiversity initiatives, and sustainable maintenance. Next summer, New Lanark will participate in the Scottish Garden Scheme, showcasing the volunteers’ hard work, with a portion of funds raised going to local charities.

Kate Lapping, Head of Heritage, commented: “Our volunteers and students bring so much knowledge, passion, and energy to New Lanark. Their contributions continue to inspire our team, and their efforts make a lasting impact. We are incredibly grateful for the partnerships and for the individuals who share our commitment to preserving this historic site.”

For more information on how to get involved in New Lanark's volunteer and placement opportunities, visit: www.newlanark.org/get-involved