Skills for the Future Trainees

Since October 2018 the museum has hosted three Heritage Management trainees as part of the Transforming People to Transform Museums project, generously funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The year-long placements provide young people with little to no experience in the cultural and heritage sector the opportunity to work within a museum.

Throughout the duration of the placements trainees will learn and develop a series of transferable skills. This is what Alice, Daniel and David had to say about their time with us so far,

Daniel helping to take down a temporary exhibition

 “I’ve been working at the Museum for almost 4 months now and in that time I have had the opportunity to attend various meetings which have helped me to understand how independent museums are organised. I’m excited to see what else I have the chance to do during my time here and I hope it will equip me for a future working in museums.”

David lending a hand with the planting of the orchard

 “I have enjoyed my time here so far as the work is varied, everyone here is really friendly and it is an enjoyable place to work”

“I enjoy the variety of work at our museum, from writing interpretation panels to working outdoors, and learning from such a supportive team. I have recently begun learning about development and fundraising, minuting and organising meetings for the Museum’s Board and other organisations. Learning from staff and trainees at other sites is also something I really value and enjoy”

As from January the Museum has also hosted a trainee as part of the British Museum’s Museum Futures project , also supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. This trainee is working with the collections team and has a crucial role in the photography phase of our Search for the Stars project. Of her experience so far Lois says,

Lois testing her new lighting equipment

“My main focus is the digitalisation of our collection, photographing the objects and then uploading them onto the online catalogue. I have really enjoyed learning about the running of a museum and also my recent trip to the British Museum to see behind the scenes!”