This year, we have been delighted to welcome four fantastic work experience students to Bailiffgate Museum & Gallery – Eli, Vinny, Harry and Zoe.
Over their time with us here at the museum they have learnt behind the scenes of how our volunteer run museum works. From supporting visitors on our welcome desk to spending time with our collections and education teams, they have gained a real insight into the museum workings, and they have discovered just how much happens behind the scenes.
Two of the students were also tasked with some exciting research projects, helping to develop visual displays for this year’s Heritage Open Day on September 19th. Their enthusiasm, attention to detail and fresh perspectives made valuable contributions, and we look forward to sharing the results with our visitors.
As part of their work experience, all the students were encouraged to think about Bailiffgate Museum through the eyes of young people and families. They analysed our website, explored our social media presence and shared creative ideas on how we can better connect with teenagers and family audiences within all aspects of the museum.
The students offered some brilliant suggestions. From creating more engaging social media content and promoting interactive experiences to highlighting the stories that make history feel relevant today, they reminded us how important it is to see our museum through a younger generation’s eyes. A couple of the students learnt how to accession items into our archive, ensuring that the museum remains relevant by preserving current events and artifacts for future generations.
“Spending time with Eli, Vinny, Harry and Zoe was a real pleasure. They asked thoughtful questions, embraced every opportunity and showed genuine interest in learning how a museum operates. We hope they leave with a greater appreciation of the wide range of careers and volunteering opportunities available within the heritage sector”. Emma Arthur, Administration Officer, Bailiffgate Museum and Gallery.
As an independent charity, Bailiffgate Museum & Gallery relies on the dedication of volunteers, whose time, skills and passion make everything we do possible. It was wonderful to introduce our students to so many of these volunteers who kindly gave their time and demonstrated the vital role they play in welcoming visitors, caring for collections, delivering educational activities and preserving our local heritage for future generations.
A huge thank you to Eli, Vinny, Harry and Zoe for all their hard work, enthusiasm and brilliant ideas. We wish each of them every success in the future and hope they will come back to visit us again – perhaps even as volunteers!
Above : Harry (left) and Vinny (right) with displays they have created as part of their activity.
If you, or anyone you know wants information about our work experience programme, then please email ask@bailiffgatemuseum.co.uk