This latest cash round for the Skills for the Future initiative builds on current funding of nearly £27m for training across the heritage sector including archives collections. It can be spent on education, outreach work, digital technology or managing volunteers.
"Trainees will learn skills essential to the future of heritage, sustaining and bringing sites and collections alive for future generations," chair Dame Jenny Abramsky said of the scheme, which has created more than 700 placements since 2009.
"Applicants will be encouraged to build in supplementary training, such as developing business planning or marketing skills, to prepare trainees for the modern heritage economy."
Under secretary for education, business innovation and skills Matthew Hancock said: "Skills for the Future offers paid opportunities to people of all ages and backgrounds, with the double benefit of protecting and nurturing skills and attracting people.
First-round applications need to be submitted by 31 January for a decision in May 2013. Visit www.hlf.org.uk/skills. HLF is to run pre-application workshops in November and December. Call 020 7591 6042.
