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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Welcome visitors, assist boaters through locks, and maintain the area.
- Company: Join the Canal & River Trust, preserving Britain's waterways for future generations.
- Benefits: Meet new people, gain skills, and explore further volunteering opportunities.
- Why this job: Enjoy the outdoors while making a positive impact on the community.
- Qualifications: Must be over 18 with enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
- Other info: Role runs from April to October; training provided.
Overview
Lock keepers have been a fixture on Britain’s canals for hundreds of years and are one of the oldest traditions of the waterways. As ‘the face of the waterway’, modern-day volunteer lock keepers play an integral part in the visitor experience. Their role is to provide a polite and friendly welcome to waterway visitors, assisting boaters through the locks and helping to maintain the area.
Why we want you
It’s a perfect opportunity for those who enjoy working in the outdoors and are perhaps looking for something different to do and want to help support the Canal & River Trust. The key qualities we’re looking for are enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
Anyone can join as long as you are over the age of 18 and have at least a day a week available. Following appropriate selection, training and induction sessions we expect the role to commence fully around April and run through to October (local variations may apply).
What you will be doing
- Helping boats through the locks
- Talking to customers
- Litter picking and/or minor vegetation works
- When you register as a volunteer, we will ask you about any unspent convictions which you need to declare and risk assess these as needs be.
The skills you need
- Great communication skills. This is all about talking to people.
- Practical skills – it’s also about minor maintenance to ensure that your locks are functional.
- Teamworking skills – whilst you may spend some of your time alone, fundamentally you’re part of a team.
What’s in it for you
- It’s a great way to meet other local volunteers, learn new skills, and hear about other volunteering opportunities if you fancy getting more involved.
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Volunteer Lock-Keeper (Etruria) employer: Canal & River Trust
Contact Detail:
Canal & River Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Lock-Keeper (Etruria)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local waterways and the specific locks you'll be working at. Understanding the area will not only help you feel more confident but also allow you to engage more effectively with visitors.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your communication skills by practising conversations with friends or family. Being friendly and approachable is key, as you'll be the first point of contact for many visitors.
✨Tip Number 3
Join local community groups or forums related to canal activities. Networking with other volunteers can provide insights into the role and may even lead to helpful tips from those who have experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role during any informal discussions or interviews. Showing genuine interest in the waterways and the volunteer experience can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Lock-Keeper (Etruria)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read through the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and skills required for the Volunteer Lock-Keeper position. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your communication, practical, and teamwork skills in your application. Provide specific examples of how you've demonstrated these skills in previous roles or volunteer experiences.
Express Enthusiasm: Show your passion for working outdoors and helping others in your application. Mention why you are interested in volunteering with the Canal & River Trust and how it aligns with your personal values.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, make sure to proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Canal & River Trust
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
As a volunteer lock-keeper, enthusiasm is key. Make sure to express your passion for the outdoors and your eagerness to help visitors enjoy their experience on the waterways.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Since the role involves interacting with boaters and visitors, highlight any previous experience you have in customer service or communication. Be friendly and approachable during the interview to showcase these skills.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
Talk about your ability to work as part of a team. Share examples of past experiences where you collaborated with others, as this role requires working alongside fellow volunteers.
✨Be Prepared to Learn
Express your willingness to learn new skills, especially practical ones related to maintaining the locks. This shows that you are adaptable and ready to take on the responsibilities of the role.
