At a Glance
- Tasks: Support curatorial projects and help create exciting exhibitions at The Museum of Somerset.
- Company: Join the South West Heritage Trust, a dynamic charity dedicated to preserving heritage.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, valuable experience in the heritage sector, and a chance to make a difference.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace committed to community representation.
- Why this job: Be part of an ambitious project that showcases history and engages the community.
- Qualifications: Motivated individuals with a passion for heritage and teamwork skills.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Hours: 18.5 hours per week
Contract: Fixed‐term for 15 months (June 2026 to August 2027)
We are looking for a highly motivated individual for a key role in the Somerset Museums Service curatorial team, supporting the Senior Curator and helping us deliver the next stage of the Chew Valley Hoard project, funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Working alongside the Curators and Exhibitions and Programmes Manager, the postholder will contribute to the creation of content for an ambitious new temporary exhibition at The Museum of Somerset to run from April 2027, and the permanent display of the hoard from 2028. The postholder will support excellent collections management to ensure Somerset Museums Service is fulfilling curatorial best practice and meeting Accreditation guidelines.
The South West Heritage Trust is a charity which delivers a broad range of heritage services across Somerset and Devon. We are a growing organisation, founded on services that were previously delivered by Somerset and Devon County Councils. With a turnover exceeding £4 million, we manage and run three museums (including the Museum of Somerset), two Archives and Local Studies services and look after the historic environment in Somerset.
We are committed to building an organisation as diverse as the communities we serve. Your application for this role will be welcomed whatever your background and regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, and marriage or civil partnership.
If you would like to have an informal discussion or experience any difficulties with the recruitment process, please contact Ann Bradford (HR and Governance Manager) via email: ann.bradford@swheritage.org.uk.
For further information and to access the application form, please follow the link below to our recruitment portal. Only completed South West Heritage Trust application form that can be found in the link at the bottom of the advert will be accepted for shortlisting. Please note CVs are not accepted as applications.
Assistant Curator in Taunton employer: Breath HR
The South West Heritage Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where creativity and passion for heritage thrive. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, employees benefit from professional growth opportunities while contributing to meaningful projects like the Chew Valley Hoard exhibition. Located in the picturesque Somerset region, the Trust fosters a collaborative culture that values each team member's contributions, making it an ideal place for those seeking a rewarding career in the heritage sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Curator in Taunton
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Somerset Museums Service and the Chew Valley Hoard project inside out. Research their past exhibitions and current projects so you can chat about them during your interview. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute!
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn, or attend local heritage events. Building connections can give you insider info and might even lead to a recommendation when you apply through our website.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare some thoughtful questions for your interview. Ask about the future of the Chew Valley Hoard project or how they envision the new exhibition. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
✨Tip Number 4
Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or family, focusing on common questions for curatorial roles. The more comfortable you are speaking about your skills and experiences, the better you'll shine when it counts!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Curator in Taunton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start filling out the application form, take a good look at the job description. We want to see how your skills and experiences align with what we're looking for, so make sure you understand the role of Assistant Curator and the Chew Valley Hoard project.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send in a generic application! We love it when candidates personalise their responses. Highlight your relevant experience and how it connects to the Somerset Museums Service and our curatorial best practices. Show us why you're the perfect fit!
Follow the Application Instructions:Remember, we only accept the South West Heritage Trust application form, so don’t waste time sending in a CV. Make sure you complete every section of the form and double-check for any errors before submitting. We want to see your best work!
Be Yourself:We’re all about diversity and authenticity here at StudySmarter. Let your personality shine through in your application. Share your passion for heritage and museums, and don’t hesitate to show us what makes you unique!
How to prepare for a job interview at Breath HR
✨Know Your Hoard
Make sure you dive deep into the Chew Valley Hoard project. Familiarise yourself with its history, significance, and the role it plays in Somerset's heritage. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also help you engage in meaningful conversations during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Curatorial Skills
Prepare examples of your previous curatorial work or projects you've been involved in. Highlight how you’ve contributed to exhibitions or collections management, and be ready to discuss how you can apply those skills to support the Senior Curator and the team.
✨Understand the Organisation
Research the South West Heritage Trust and its mission. Knowing their values and the services they provide will help you align your answers with what they’re looking for. It’s all about showing that you’re a good fit for their culture and goals.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about future exhibitions, community engagement strategies, or how the team collaborates on projects. It shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if this role is right for you.
