At a Glance
- Tasks: Welcome visitors and help care for the gardens and buildings at the Quentin Blake Centre.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at the new Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience in a creative environment with training provided.
- Other info: Flexible working patterns available, and guaranteed interviews for D/deaf and disabled applicants.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in museums or visitor attractions while working outdoors.
- Qualifications: No formal qualifications needed; just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated person to join our team as Welcome Assistant (Buildings and Gardens), following the opening of the Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration in June 2026.
The Welcome Assistant (Buildings and Gardens) will help welcome visitors to, and help take care of, the Quentin Blake Centre’s gardens and buildings. This job is intended as a first step towards a career in museums, galleries, visitor attractions or parks. Over 21 months, you will:
- Help care for the garden, make non-specialist repairs to the buildings and keep signage up to date
- Help coordinate repairs to be carried out by visiting tradespeople
- Welcome visitors to the Centre, providing information and directions, and ensuring that people and artworks are kept safe
You do not need formal qualifications or museum experience to apply. We are looking for people who are committed to inclusion, are positive and keen to learn, and who will contribute their ideas and perspectives.
Please note that this is a physical, hands-on role that will require some lifting and working at height, and regular open-air working. Appropriate training, clothing and equipment will be provided.
We champion art that is dynamic, diverse and inclusive; we want our team to reflect that. We’re very happy to explore alternative working patterns.
In recognition of underrepresentation in our staff team we will be offering guaranteed interviews to D/deaf and disabled applicants whose applications meet the essential criteria listed in the Job Pack.
Please download the Job Pack from the Attachments section on the right-hand side of the page for more details on the role, the essential criteria, and how to apply.
If you have any queries, please email us.
We are holding an online information session on Thursday 4th June from 6:00pm – 7:00pm BST via Zoom. You will be able to meet some of our team, find out more about our work and ask questions about the role. If you would like to attend please email us and we will send you joining instructions in advance.
We are registered as a Disability Confident employer. Please let us know if you have any access requirements that need to be met to support you to make an application or participate in the interview process.
Deadline extended: Apply by Tuesday 16th June at 9:00am BST.
We welcome applicants for full-time (37.5 hours per week) or part-time (minimum 2.5 days per week).
Welcome Assistant (Buildings and Gardens) in London employer: Qbcentre
Join us at the Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration, where we foster a vibrant and inclusive work culture that values creativity and diversity. As a Welcome Assistant, you'll not only gain hands-on experience in a dynamic environment but also benefit from tailored training and support to help you grow in your career within the arts and visitor attractions sector. Our commitment to accessibility ensures that everyone has the opportunity to thrive, making this an excellent place for those eager to contribute their unique perspectives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Welcome Assistant (Buildings and Gardens) in London
✨Explore Local Hotspots
For entry-level roles in the hospitality food service industry, getting a foot in the door can often mean walking into local cafés, restaurants, or hotels with your CV in hand. Introduce yourself, ask about openings, and show your enthusiasm. This face-to-face approach can really set you apart from other candidates who just apply online!
✨Utilise Seasonal Hiring Trends
Keep an eye on the busy seasons, like summer or winter holidays, when restaurants and venues are ramping up for new staff. Many establishments look for extra hands during these peak times, so target your applications around these windows. Engage with local event calendars to find places that might be preparing for busy periods.
✨Join Hospitality Communities
Connect with local hospitality groups on social media or platforms like Meetup; they're a great way to learn about unadvertised opportunities and network with industry folks. Plus, you’ll get insider tips on where the best spots to apply are, and maybe even find a mentor to guide you through your first steps in the industry.
✨Polish those Soft Skills
In food service, your ability to communicate well and remain calm under pressure is crucial. Consider volunteering at local events or gatherings where you can showcase these skills. It not only adds experience to your CV but also demonstrates your willingness to learn and adapt, which is super enticing to potential employers like Qbcentre.
We think you need these skills to ace Welcome Assistant (Buildings and Gardens) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality-food-service world, mentioning your customer service experience is key. Even if it’s just a part-time gig or a volunteer role, highlight how you made customers happy or handled tricky situations. We love seeing those people-focused skills in your application!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any relevant certifications, like a food hygiene certificate or bartending course, make sure they shine in your CV. Certifications show you're serious about your craft, and we appreciate candidates who come prepared with the right knowledge and skills for the job.
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:For an entry-level position like this, your cover letter should reflect your enthusiasm and willingness to learn. Talk about why you’re excited about the role at Qbcentre and what you hope to gain from working in hospitality. Let your personality come through!
Keep Your CV Clear and Concise:In hospitality, hiring managers might be sifting through loads of applications. Keep your CV neat and ensure it highlights your relevant experience and skills without fluff. Stick to one page if you can, making it easy for us to see why you'd be a great fit at Qbcentre!
How to prepare for a job interview at Qbcentre
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
You'd be surprised at how many candidates stumble on questions about the menu! Make sure you familiarise yourself with the food and drink offerings at Qbcentre. Knowing the ingredients, cooking methods, and even the specials can really impress your interviewer and show you're genuinely interested.
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
In the hospitality-food-service world, customer service is king. Prepare some examples of how you've handled customer interactions in the past, whether in a part-time job or even during group projects. Practising these scenarios can set you apart and highlight your problem-solving abilities.
✨Be Ready for Practical Assessments
Since you're going for an entry-level role, don't be surprised if they ask you to demonstrate your skills in a practical way. Whether that's making a drink or setting a table, brush up on basic hospitality tasks. It shows that you're not just talk, but you can walk the walk too!
✨Display Your Willingness to Learn
As an entry-level candidate, your enthusiasm and willingness to grow can go a long way. Be prepared to discuss what you hope to learn and how you can contribute to the team at Qbcentre. Your motivation can often outweigh experience, so let that passion shine through!
