At a Glance
- Tasks: Welcome visitors and help them enjoy interactive exhibits at the museum.
- Company: Fordingbridge Museum is a charming local museum run entirely by passionate volunteers.
- Benefits: Flexible volunteering hours, training provided, and a supportive community atmosphere.
- Why this job: Join a friendly team, engage with the community, and make history fun for everyone!
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring your friendly attitude and willingness to help.
- Other info: Encourage a friend to volunteer with you and share the experience!
Fordingbridge Museum is a small local Museum which is entirely run by volunteers. It covers the social history of the area for the last 150 years. From Easter till the end of the October half term, the Museum is open free to visitors from 11am until 4pm.
The Stewards greet visitors and make them feel welcome in the Museum. Few exhibits are behind glass and visitors are encouraged to play the pianola, use the dressing up clothes, play shove halfpenny and other simple activities.
The stewarding sessions are from 11am until 1.30pm or 1.30pm until 4pm. There is no need to commit to a regular day and time, though that is possible if it is your preference. Training and support are given. No prior knowledge of history or the area is necessary.
The Museum is on two floors with no lift. Stewards are encouraged to interact with visitors, but it is possible to sit down as frequently as necessary. There is a Stewards Handbook on the Steward's desk to cover most eventualities. However, the role is mainly that of greeting visitors and assisting them to enjoy their visit.
The Museum needs several new stewards to spread the load for the existing stewards. Please feel free to encourage a friend to volunteer with you.
Skills- Have an open and friendly manner
- Be a good listener
- Know when to offer help and when to give people space
- Be supportive of those with disabilities, seeking ways to include them
There is a step into the building, with a wheelchair ramp available. There are stairs to the upper exhibition floor and no lift. The office and toilet are on the second floor.
Age restrictions18+
DBS check requiredAlthough there is a need to be aware of safeguarding, stewarding does not involve working with unattended children.
Expenses reimbursedThere are not likely to be any expenses involved.
Health and Safety PolicyOngoing support. Training provided. Volunteers covered by insurance.
When can I volunteer?- Morning: Yes (Mon-Fri)
- Afternoon: Yes (Mon-Fri)
- Evening: No
Fordingbridge Museum, Kings Yard, Salisbury Street, Fordingbridge, Hampshire, SP6 1AB
Museum Steward employer: Volunteer First
Contact Detail:
Volunteer First Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Museum Steward
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local history and key exhibits of Fordingbridge Museum. This will help you engage more meaningfully with visitors and answer their questions, making their experience more enjoyable.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your welcoming skills by volunteering at other community events or museums. This will enhance your ability to greet visitors warmly and create a friendly atmosphere.
✨Tip Number 3
Connect with current stewards or volunteers at the museum to gain insights into their experiences. They can provide valuable tips on how to interact with visitors and manage the various activities.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to demonstrate your listening skills during any informal interviews or discussions. Show that you can gauge when visitors need assistance and when they prefer to explore on their own.
We think you need these skills to ace Museum Steward
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand what Fordingbridge Museum is looking for in a Museum Steward. Highlight your ability to greet visitors warmly and assist them in enjoying their visit.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects relevant skills such as being friendly, a good listener, and supportive. Include any previous volunteer experience or roles that demonstrate your ability to interact with the public.
Write a Personal Statement: Craft a personal statement that showcases your enthusiasm for volunteering at the museum. Mention why you are interested in the role and how your skills align with the responsibilities of a steward.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, proofread it for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application shows attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Volunteer First
✨Show Your Friendly Side
As a Museum Steward, having an open and friendly manner is crucial. During the interview, demonstrate your ability to engage with people warmly and make them feel welcome, as this will be a key part of your role.
✨Highlight Your Listening Skills
Being a good listener is essential in this position. Share examples from your past experiences where you successfully listened to others and provided support, showing that you can gauge when to offer help or give space.
✨Discuss Inclusivity
The museum values inclusivity, especially for visitors with disabilities. Be prepared to discuss how you would ensure all visitors feel included and supported during their visit, showcasing your understanding of accessibility.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Museum
Even though prior knowledge of history isn't necessary, it’s beneficial to have a basic understanding of the museum's exhibits and activities. Research the museum beforehand and express your enthusiasm for sharing this knowledge with visitors.