National Trust for Scotland – Interpretation Consultant opportunity for Fyvie Castle

Fyvie Castle is nationally significant as one of the largest, oldest and most impressive castles in Scotland. Whilst at its core, it is a medieval fortified castle and royal stronghold archaeological investigation has revealed evidence of much earlier and exceptionally well-preserved formal gardens and built structures.  But the significance of Fyvie goes far beyond its defensive history.

The National Trust for Scotland are seeking a suitably qualified consultant to review and build on existing proposals and interpretive plans to produce a holistic interpretation strategy for Fyvie Castle and estate that meets the masterplan and vision for Fyvie. The strategy should consider the key narrative of the story of Fyvie, seeking to reconnect the castle with its context and considering the potential to reach new audiences. 

The strategy should consider the phased approach of the masterplan, establishing a clear framework which allows effective implementation through the delivery of the project and beyond its lifespan as areas of Fyvie incrementally returns to operational business as usual.

Please download the following documents:
Interpretation Strategy for Fyvie Castle and Estate – full brief
If you would like copies of Appendix A - Masterplan overview - Page_Park or Appendix B - ScotInform Fyvie Castle Market Assessment Final please contact NTS direct.

Deliverables

The key deliverable of the project is a report setting out a high-level interpretation strategy for Fyvie Castle and estate, with:

• Proposals for interpretive content hierarchy (concept, themes, narrative etc.);
• Proposals for interpretive media and programmes based on the assumptions and operational business model described above;

It is expected that the consultant will also provide an in-person presentation on the report to NTS staff either at HQ in Edinburgh or at Fyvie castle, Aberdeenshire AB53 8JS.

Submissions

The deadline for submissions is 9am on Monday 3rd February 2025 and submissions should be returned to:

Michael Terwey, Head of Heritage Services and Consultancy, National Trust for Scotland, Hermiston Quay, Edinburgh, mterwey@nts.org.uk. 

Submissions should include:

• A written response to the brief, indicating any suggested additions to scope or questions for clarification;
• A full fee quotation including indicative day-rates. The fee should include anticipated expenses and include site visits to Fyvie (the quantity and timing of which should be detailed);
• A programme for completion of work;
• Examples of previous work undertaken by the team which demonstrates experience relevant to the brief.

Tenders shall be reviewed by the selection panel and scored against the above criteria. A shortlist will be drawn-up and parties will be invited to a short, online interview. Further details will be provided to the shortlisted parties.

Contacts

For any queries relating to the brief requirements or tender process please contact:

Michael Terwey, Director of Public Engagement and Research, mterwey@nts.org.uk

It is not expected to conduct a site visit at tender stage, but if you wish to do so you can arrange access to Fyvie by contacting: Annie Robertson, Project Director (Fyvie Major Conservation Project), anrobertson@nts.org.uk