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- Tasks: Conduct interviews and process recordings for an exciting oral history project.
- Company: Join the renowned Chatsworth House Trust and be part of a vibrant heritage team.
- Benefits: Travel expenses, discounts, free entry to events, and tailored training opportunities.
- Other info: Friendly environment with opportunities to boost your CV and support your wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by preserving stories and connecting with diverse people.
- Qualifications: Interest in history, good IT skills, and a passion for meeting new people.
Chatsworth is an internationally renowned heritage and cultural attraction that attracts over half a million visitors a year to the House, Garden and Farmyard which is managed by Chatsworth House Trust, and over a million visitors a year to the wider estate. We are looking for two volunteers to join our archive team on our exciting oral history project Cascade Chronicles: Voices from Chatsworth.
A key element of our Celebrating the Cascade project, this oral history project focuses on gathering stories from a range of people about their work and life experiences associated with the Cascade, the other water features at Chatsworth, the gardens and built structures. As a volunteer on this project you will be carrying out interviews and processing the recordings for inclusion within the Chatsworth Archives. Training and support will be provided by our archive team and project partners Paradigm Arts.
Time Commitment and Location
This is a fixed term volunteer opportunity running from late April 2026 to June 2028. We ask volunteers to commit to one regular day per week, Wednesdays, from 10am-4pm. From time to time - especially between June and July 2026 when oral history interviews are taking place - we may need a bit of flexibility. This could mean swapping to a different day or helping out for more than one day in a particular week, where possible, but we will always discuss this with you. The role will be based at Chatsworth House, with the oral history interviews taking place on site.
About you
- Enjoys meeting people
- Has an interest in history
- Has good IT skills, and willingness to learn about and use different software and equipment
In return
As a volunteer at Chatsworth, you will receive travel expenses up to £10 a day (45p per mile), an Estate Pass giving you up to 20% in our shops and cafes, as well as regular 30% days; appropriate uniform for your role, free entry for you and up to three guests to the House, Gardens and annual events, access to the Devonshire Monthly newsletter, Blink (our internal communication app), carefully tailored training programmes in conjunction with Derbyshire County Council, as well as planned volunteer recognition evenings throughout the year. As a volunteer at Chatsworth, you will be offering your time and expertise and in return, we offer a friendly, supportive and fun environment, where you can meet new friends, boost your CV and support your wellbeing.
Celebrating the Cascade project is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, this project enables the essential restoration and conservation work that is urgently required to save and restore Chatsworth’s Grade I Cascade and engaging a much wider range of people with Chatsworth, ensuring they can see, feel and take part in the Chatsworth story.
Further role details can be found in the attached document. If you are interested in applying, please supply a CV and brief covering letter outlining your interest. We will look to hold brief, informal interviews with applicants on 7th April 2026. Please note, due to a high volume of applications/interest, this advert may close earlier than the advertised closing date.
Oral History Volunteer, Cascade Chronicles: Voices from Chatsworth employer: Devonshire Group
Contact Detail:
Devonshire Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Oral History Volunteer, Cascade Chronicles: Voices from Chatsworth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Chat with friends, family, and even acquaintances about the Oral History Volunteer role. You never know who might have a connection or insight that could help you land the gig.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your interview skills sharp! Practice common questions and think about how your passion for history and people can shine through. We want to see your enthusiasm for the project!
✨Tip Number 3
Show up prepared! When you get that interview, bring along any relevant experience or examples of your IT skills. It’s all about demonstrating how you can contribute to the Cascade Chronicles project.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Oral History Volunteer, Cascade Chronicles: Voices from Chatsworth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for history and storytelling shine through. We want to see why you're excited about the oral history project and how you can contribute to it!
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant skills and experiences that align with the role. If you've done any similar volunteer work or have a knack for meeting new people, we want to know about it!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Keep it brief but impactful, and don’t forget to mention your interest in the Cascade Chronicles project specifically.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Devonshire Group
✨Know Your History
Before the interview, brush up on the history of Chatsworth and its Cascade project. Familiarise yourself with key events and figures related to the estate. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you engage in meaningful conversations during the interview.
✨Showcase Your People Skills
As an Oral History Volunteer, you'll be meeting a lot of people. Prepare examples of past experiences where you've successfully interacted with others. Think about how you can demonstrate your ability to make interviewees feel comfortable and valued.
✨Be Tech-Savvy
Since the role involves using different software and equipment for recording interviews, it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with basic audio recording tools. If you have any experience with IT or software, be ready to discuss it and express your willingness to learn more.
✨Flexibility is Key
The role requires some flexibility in your schedule, especially during peak interview times. Be prepared to discuss your availability and how you can adapt to changing needs. Showing that you're willing to go the extra mile will make a great impression!