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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Welcome visitors and assist boaters through the locks while maintaining the area.
- Company: Join the Canal & River Trust, preserving Britain's waterways for future generations.
- Benefits: Meet new people, learn skills, and explore more volunteering opportunities.
- Why this job: Enjoy the outdoors, be part of a historic tradition, and make a positive impact.
- Qualifications: Must be over 18, enthusiastic, and willing to learn; no prior experience needed.
- Other info: Role runs from April to October; commitment of at least one day a week required.
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.
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 a 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).
Responsibilities
- 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 (Kibworth) 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 (Kibworth)
✨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
Practice your communication skills by volunteering in other community roles or engaging with local groups. This will enhance your ability to interact with a diverse range of people, which is crucial for the role of a lock-keeper.
✨Tip Number 3
Join online forums or social media groups related to canal volunteering. Networking with current volunteers can provide insights into the role and tips on how to excel as a lock-keeper.
✨Tip Number 4
Be proactive in learning about the maintenance tasks involved in the role. Familiarising yourself with basic practical skills will show your enthusiasm and readiness to contribute effectively to the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Lock-Keeper (Kibworth)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take some time to understand what being a volunteer lock-keeper entails. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and skills required, as this will help you tailor your application.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, emphasise your communication skills, practical abilities, and teamwork experience. Provide specific examples of how you've demonstrated these qualities in past experiences.
Express Enthusiasm: Show your passion for the role and the Canal & River Trust in your application. Explain why you want to be a volunteer lock-keeper and how you can contribute positively to the visitor experience.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully 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. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your love for nature and community service.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Since the role involves interacting with boaters and visitors, showcase your communication skills during the interview. Practice clear and friendly conversation, and be prepared to discuss how you would handle various visitor interactions.
✨Highlight Teamwork Experience
Even though you may work alone at times, being part of a team is essential. Share examples from past experiences where you successfully collaborated with others, emphasising your ability to work well in a team environment.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about practical skills related to maintaining the locks and the surrounding area. Brush up on basic maintenance tasks and be ready to discuss how you would approach minor repairs or upkeep.
