At the heart of our Museum is a rich heritage of making the complex simple, a philosophy inspired by our founder, John Haynes OBE, creator of the world-famous Haynes Manuals, which empowered people to understand and repair their own vehicles.
Today we carry that legacy forward by making Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) and motoring history accessible to all, opening doors to lifelong discovery.
As the leader of the Learning and Outreach team, you will drive forward the museum’s learning and engagement strategy while delivering high-quality educational sessions for schools and adult groups. This role combines strategic leadership with hands‑on delivery, shaping our programme of activities and ensuring meaningful engagement with diverse audiences.
You will lead outreach across the region, working with colleagues to engage audiences of all ages and bring automotive engineering and heritage to life. This is an opportunity to shape how communities connect with our Collection and to inspire the next generation to explore automotive heritage, design and engineering.
Working within the Collections Department and reporting directly to the Curator, you will play a vital role in supporting the Museum’s charitable objectives. You will collaborate with a dedicated team of Learning Officers and volunteers to deliver a wide range of engaging formal and informal learning activities, and work closely with other departments to ensure a joined‑up approach across the organisation.
About You
We are looking for an experienced museum learning professional with a passion for developing and delivering high-quality informal and formal learning activities, both on‑site and through outreach.
You will be a confident leader and communicator, with the ability to manage, motivate and develop a team, and to report on Learning and Outreach strategy objectives to internal and external stakeholders.
You will be confident delivering engaging sessions to diverse audiences and passionate about using storytelling to bring automotive engineering and motoring history to life. An enthusiasm for inspiring curiosity and engagement, alongside an interest in STEM, is essential.
This is an exciting opportunity to shape and grow Learning and Outreach activities, embedding the power of ‘How’ and contributing to our ambition of becoming a STEM hub for the South West.
Responsibilities of the Role
Leadership and StrategyLead and manage the Learning and Outreach team, currently comprising two part‑time Learning Officers and volunteers.
Report internally and externally against strategic objectives and funder requirements.
Contribute to the Learning and Outreach Strategy Working Group.
Programme Development and DeliveryDesign, deliver and evaluate learning activities, using insights to inform continuous improvement.
Develop high‑quality informal and curriculum‑linked programmes for a wide range of audiences.
Create and maintain engaging learning resources.
Day‑to‑day administration and organisation of educational visits and outreach.
Support, train, and develop volunteers.
Ensure compliance with safeguarding, risk management and health and safety policies.
Engagement and OutreachBroaden Museum engagement through outreach and activities for local community and wider regional groups.
Build and maintain relationships with educational organisations, promoting visits and tailoring experiences.
Experience and Skills
An excellent understanding of STEM principles and their application in educational contexts.
Experience of museum learning.
Strong interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work effectively as part of a close‑knit team.
Excellent organisational and administrative skills, with the ability to plan, adapt, and meet deadlines.
Experience leading a team of learning professionals and volunteers.
Experience developing learning sessions for all ages.
Experience engaging with teachers, community groups, families, and young people.
Experience of delivering grant‑funded programmes.
Awareness of current trends in museum education.
Experience of working with volunteers.
Hours, Structure and Pay
Salary: £ 30,000 to £32,500 per annum dependent on experience.Contract: Full‑time, 40 hours per week, with occasional weekend working to support the Duty Manager rota.
Location: Sparkford, Somerset BA22 7LH, just minutes off the A303, the main trunk road to the South West.
29 days holiday, increasing with service.
An extra day off for your birthday.
Free on‑site parking.
Staff discounts in the café and gift shop.
Free entry to the Museum for you and your family.
Equal Opportunity Statement
We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
