At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engaging tours of Durham Castle and share fascinating stories with visitors.
- Company: Durham University Library and Collections, a historic and vibrant institution.
- Benefits: Earn £13.45 per hour, flexible hours, and gain valuable experience in customer service.
- Other info: Ideal for students available during summer and university vacations.
- Why this job: Showcase your passion for history while creating memorable experiences for visitors.
- Qualifications: Interest in history and excellent communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 13.45 - 13.45 £ per hour.
We welcome applications from candidates with disabilities, neurodiversity and long-term health conditions, and we are committed to ensuring fair treatment throughout the recruitment process. We will make adjustments to support the recruitment and interview process wherever it is reasonable to do so and, where successful, adjustments will be made to support people within their role. If you are unable to complete your application via our recruitment system or would like to discuss any reasonable adjustments to support you in the application process, please get in touch with us on e.recruitment@durham.ac.uk.
Durham University Library and Collections is seeking to recruit a number of tour guides and/or self‑guided day stewards for Durham Castle. For over 50 years Castle Guides have been at the forefront of providing access for the general public to both Durham Castle and University College. This is a front‑line position which requires an interest in history, architecture and museum objects, but also a desire to tell stories and provide an entertaining, factual and interesting tour to visitors. You will be passionate about showcasing Durham Castle and about delivering outstanding customer service to our visitors, making sure they have a memorable experience.
Please note you must be available to work for us during the upcoming summer months, and more in general university vacation. Applications from individuals unable to work outside of term time may not be considered.
The below role descriptor seeks to capture the main requirements of the role consistently, providing a summary of the key duties of the flexible role to help in setting expectations for applicants, flexible workers and line managers. They are not intended to cover all duties which may be required.
Role Responsibilities:- Under instruction and following appropriate training, provide a high‑quality tour experience for all visitors to Durham Castle through effective and relevant communication.
- Check that the tour route is safe and appropriate based on the tour group and any events and activities which may be taking place, raising any concerns with supervision.
- Act as an ambassador for Durham Castle by being well‑presented at all times and offering a warm and open welcome to all visitors.
- Maintain awareness of the general security of the premises and the collections.
- Maintain good working relationships with staff and students.
To apply for the role please complete the online application process, uploading a copy of your CV and Covering Letter. Please note that applications without both documents will not be considered. Please note the advert may close earlier than the projected closing date if we receive a sufficient number of applications for the role.
Disclosure and Barring Service Requirement: Not Applicable.
CASUAL - Durham Castle Tour Guide in North East employer: Durham University
Durham University Library and Collections is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that values inclusivity and diversity. As a Casual Tour Guide at the historic Durham Castle, you will not only engage with visitors in a meaningful way but also enjoy flexible working hours during the summer months and university vacations, fostering both personal and professional growth in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land CASUAL - Durham Castle Tour Guide in North East
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We think you need these skills to ace CASUAL - Durham Castle Tour Guide in North East
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality and food service industry, showcasing your customer service experience is key. Be sure to highlight relevant roles in your CV or cover letter where you’ve directly engaged with customers—this could be from previous waitressing, barista jobs, or any roles that involved teamwork and communication. You want to convince us at Durham University that you can keep it cool under pressure!
Certifications Matter:If you’ve got any hospitality-related certifications—like food safety or first aid—definitely mention those! Including these credentials can set you apart from other applicants. It shows us that you're serious about the health and safety standards we maintain here at Durham University.
Flexibility is Your Friend:Since this is a part-time role, we’re looking for someone who can work various shifts. In your application, it’s useful to outline your availability clearly. Make it easy for us to see when you can jump in and help out—this shows that you’re committed and ready to adapt!
Let Your Personality Shine:In hospitality, personality plays a vital role. Use your cover letter to share why you’re passionate about food service and what brings you joy in helping customers. A personal touch can make your application memorable and help us at Durham University get a sense of who you are beyond your experience!
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham University
✨Show Off Your People Skills
In hospitality, your ability to work with customers and team members is crucial. Be prepared to share stories that highlight your experience in handling customer service situations, especially any tricky ones. We want to hear how you turned a potentially negative experience into a positive one!
✨Know the Menu Inside Out
You might get quizzed on the menu items or asked about your favourite dishes. Brush up on any special offerings at Durham University and demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for their food. This shows you’re not just looking for any job, but you’re genuinely excited about working with their team.
✨Flexibility is Key
As you're going for a part-time role, emphasise your availability and willingness to work various shifts. Mention any instances where you've gone above and beyond for scheduling or helped out during busy times. This flexibility can make you stand out from the crowd!
✨Role-Play Scenarios
Be ready for role-play scenarios during your interview! Employers love to see how you handle on-the-spot situations, like dealing with a dissatisfied customer or managing a specific request from a patron. Practising these scenarios with friends can help boost your confidence.
