At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with diverse audiences and support exciting museum projects.
- Company: University of St Andrews, Scotland’s first university with a rich history.
- Benefits: Access to staff benefits and a supportive, inclusive workplace.
- Other info: Applications encouraged from underrepresented groups in the museum sector.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in museums while making a real impact on community engagement.
- Qualifications: Recent postgraduate from St Andrews with a passion for cultural engagement.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
The University of St Andrews is Scotland’s first university, founded in 1413. Like the University, its Libraries and Museums are rooted in and draw inspiration from this 600-year history of research and teaching, and the pursuit of knowledge for the common good.
We steward and share the University’s nationally- and internationally-important collections, we are an active partner in University research and teaching, and we engage people everywhere with the intellectual and cultural life of St Andrews. This mission supports the University strategy and ambition – aligned to the five core ideas of world-leading, diverse, digital, sustainable, and entrepreneurial St Andrews; demonstrating a determination to move forward with purpose, integrity, and success: Ever to Excel.
The University’s Museums provide the opportunity for University of St Andrews postgraduate students to develop experience in early-career museum professional roles through two traineeships offered annually. One of these focuses on engagement, and the other on collections, but trainees will work together and with staff across the Museums team, on a range of projects and tasks, building their skills and experience.
The University’s Museums are now recruiting for the 2025-26 trainee posts of Museum Trainee (Collections) and Museum Trainee (Engagement). In line with their strategic plan commitment to work to diversify the staffing in the University’s Museums, and in the sector more widely, applications for these traineeships are particularly welcomed from people underrepresented in the museums sector workforce.
Informal enquiries and application forms should be sent directly to Naomi Cooper, Learning & Engagement Officer, nhc1@st-andrews.ac.uk. The traineeships are only open to recently graduated or graduating St Andrews postgraduates – those who graduated in December 2025, the Summer of 2026, or those that have finished their postgraduate course and will be graduating in November/December 2026.
Employees of the University have access to a wide range of staff benefits. Applications are particularly welcome from people from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) community, and other protected characteristics who are under-represented in professional posts at the University. At St Andrews, equality, diversity, and inclusion are central to who we are and form a core pillar of our University Strategy. We are committed to creating a fair, inclusive and supportive workplace, reflected in our participation in national diversity charters and awards, including Athena Swan, Carer Positive and the Race Equality Charter. We particularly welcome applications from people from Black, Asian, minority ethnic and minority religions backgrounds and from LGBTQ+ and disabled people.
This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Information on other visa options is available at https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa or by contacting our HR Immigration Team on hrimmigration@st-andrews.ac.uk.
Please do not submit a CV in addition to the application form as this will not be considered by the selection panel.
Museums Trainee (Engagement) employer: University of St Andrews
The University of St Andrews offers a unique opportunity for postgraduate students to gain invaluable experience in the museum sector through its Museums Trainee (Engagement) role. With a strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and employee development, the University fosters a supportive work culture that encourages personal and professional growth while engaging with Scotland's rich cultural heritage. Located in the historic town of St Andrews, employees benefit from a vibrant academic environment and access to a wide range of staff benefits, making it an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Museums Trainee (Engagement)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former trainees and staff at the University of St Andrews. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for engagement! When you get the chance, share your ideas on how to connect with diverse audiences. This will show that you’re not just interested in the role, but also in making a real impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by researching the University’s Museums. Familiarise yourself with their collections and recent projects. This will help you stand out and demonstrate your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at St Andrews.
We think you need these skills to ace Museums Trainee (Engagement)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing, make sure to read the job description thoroughly. We want to see that you understand what the Museums Trainee role involves and how your skills align with it. Highlighting relevant experiences will make your application stand out!
Be Yourself:When filling out the application form, let your personality shine through! We’re looking for genuine passion and enthusiasm for the role. Don’t be afraid to share your unique perspective and experiences that relate to engagement in museums.
Follow the Application Guidelines:Make sure you stick to the application guidelines provided. Remember, we don’t want a CV, just the application form! Keeping it simple and straightforward will help us focus on what really matters – your fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our values right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of St Andrews
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the University of St Andrews' history and its Museums. Understand their mission and how they engage with the community. This will show your genuine interest and help you connect your experiences to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Passion for Engagement
Prepare examples of how you've engaged with diverse audiences in the past. Whether it's through volunteering, projects, or personal initiatives, be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their engagement strategies.
✨Emphasise Diversity and Inclusion
Since the University values diversity, think about how your background and experiences can add to their mission. Be prepared to discuss your views on inclusivity in museums and how you can help foster a welcoming environment.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the traineeship and the Museums' future projects. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if this role aligns with your career aspirations.
