At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in engaging communities with Durham's archaeological collections through workshops and events.
- Company: Join the University Library and Collections, a hub of cultural heritage and education.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience in museum practice and contribute to a transformative project.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity with flexible working and potential weekend/evening hours.
- Why this job: Be part of a landmark project that connects people with 10,000 years of history.
- Qualifications: Passion for archaeology and community engagement; teamwork skills are a plus.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
The University Library and Collections is made up of six sections: Collections; Customer Services; Education, Learning and Engagement; Research and Systems; Museums, Galleries and Exhibitions; and Finance and Administration. Staff work flexibly between the sections, enabled by cross-cutting groups.
The Museums, Galleries and Exhibitions team, under the leadership of the Head of Museums, Galleries and Exhibitions, is responsible for world-class museum, art, college and natural science collections supporting their care, curation, and discovery, as well as facilitating public and research access to those collections. Our spaces include the Oriental Museum, Palace Green Library (including the Museum of Archaeology) and Durham Castle Museum. We work with pre-school children, primary and secondary schools, undergraduates, postgraduates, researchers and the wider community both within our venues and through our loans and outreach programmes, as well as increasingly through digital engagement.
The Museum of Archaeology cares for over 40,000 objects spanning 10,000 years of Durham's history. This post is part of Connecting Communities with Durham's Archaeological Heritage, a major redevelopment project funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Sir James Knott Trust. The two-year project will transform the Museum of Archaeology into an inclusive, sustainable space that improves access to Durham's 10,000-year story. Through co-curation, digital interpretation and community engagement, the project aims to remove barriers to participation and create opportunities for schools, volunteers and local communities to connect with archaeology in meaningful ways.
The Collections Assistant will work in partnership with the Curator of Archaeology and Natural Sciences, collaborating with the Museums, Galleries and Exhibitions team and the Learning and Engagement team to deliver project objectives. The role focuses on increasing access to Durham's archaeological collections and creating meaningful opportunities for engagement. The postholder will support co-curation workshops with schools, volunteers and community groups, helping to shape displays and interpretation that reflect diverse voices. They will assist in developing and delivering an inclusive programme of activities, including object-handling sessions, family events and creative workshops, working closely with the Learning and Engagement team to ensure alignment with curriculum and community needs. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a landmark project and gain hands-on experience in museum practice.
Based at the Oriental Museum, this role involves regular travel within Durham City, including displays at Palace Green Library and collections stored off-site in the local area. Due to the hands-on nature of the role, there will be limited scope for hybrid working. In addition, because of the nature of the project and its public engagement activities, there may be the requirement for regular weekend and evening working, to ensure successful delivery as of the project. Further information about the role and responsibilities is provided at the end of this job description. The line manager for this post will be the Curator of Archaeology and Natural Sciences.
Collections Assistant (NLHF Engagement) - Durham employer: Durham University
The University Library and Collections offers a dynamic and inclusive work environment, where staff are encouraged to collaborate across various sections to enhance public engagement with Durham's rich archaeological heritage. Employees benefit from professional development opportunities through hands-on experience in museum practice, while contributing to meaningful community projects that foster accessibility and participation. Located in the historic city of Durham, the role of Collections Assistant provides a unique chance to be part of a transformative initiative that connects diverse voices with the region's 10,000-year story.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Collections Assistant (NLHF Engagement) - Durham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the museum and archaeology field, especially those connected to Durham's collections. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews – it’s all about making connections!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for archaeology and community engagement during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've worked with diverse groups or contributed to projects that promote inclusivity. This will help you stand out as someone who truly aligns with the role's objectives.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the Collections Assistant role and the Connecting Communities project. This shows you're genuinely interested and have done your homework. Plus, it gives you a chance to assess if the role is the right fit for you!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Collections Assistant (NLHF Engagement) - Durham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Collections Assistant role. Highlight your relevant experience in museums, galleries, or community engagement, and show us how you can contribute to our exciting project.
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for archaeology and community engagement shine through in your application. We want to see your genuine interest in connecting people with Durham's rich history and how you can help make that happen.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts well so we can easily see why you're a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity with StudySmarter.
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham University
✨Know Your Collections
Familiarise yourself with the collections at the Museum of Archaeology and the broader context of Durham's history. Be prepared to discuss specific objects or exhibitions that excite you, as this shows genuine interest and knowledge about the role.
✨Engagement is Key
Since the role focuses on community engagement, think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully worked with diverse groups. Be ready to share how you can contribute to co-curation workshops and inclusive programming.
✨Flexibility and Teamwork
Highlight your ability to work flexibly across different sections and teams. Prepare to discuss how you’ve collaborated in previous roles, especially in dynamic environments, as this will resonate well with their cross-cutting approach.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect questions that may involve practical scenarios related to object handling or event planning. Think through how you would approach these tasks and be ready to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and creativity in engaging the public.
