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Find out how to volunteer, support or partner with UCL Museums and Collections.
Volunteering at UCL Museums
We welcome anyone who can offer their time and enthusiasm to support the operation of our museums.
As a museums volunteer, you will assist our visitor services team in welcoming the public to our internationally renowned collections, creating an inclusive experience which encourages visitors to explore the many thousands of objects on display.
No specialist experience is necessary and full training will be provided, all we ask is a regular commitment and a willingness to get stuck in across one (or all) of our museum sites.
Role description
Our volunteer team play an important role in helping to bringing the museum collections to life. Your role will include:
- Museum gallery invigilation.
- Providing a warm welcome, wayfinding support and answering visitor questions.
- Cleaning the display cases.
- Supervising valued-added visitor engagement activities such as object handling or delivering short talks.
- Assisting with building evacuation during emergencies.
What are we looking for?
We are looking for people who are passionate about museums and with sharing our collections! You do not need to be affiliated with University College London or a UCL student to volunteer with us, nor do you need to have any previous museum experience. All we ask for is curiosity and a willingness to learn. We would love to hear from you if you:
- Are interested in museums and / or our collections and are excited to share your passion with our visitors.
- Have good communication skills and the ability to connect with people in a clear and friendly way.
- Can commit to attending a minimum of two volunteer shifts per calendar month.
- Are willing to feedback on the volunteer experience at UCL Museums so we can continually improve the programme.
What can we offer you?
We are committed to investing in our volunteers, providing encouragement, support, and training to help you achieve your goals. As a volunteer with UCL Museums you can expect the following:
- Full role training as part of your induction, as well as refresher sessions when needed.
- The chance to get involved with supporting visitor experience projects such as our family learning programme, short talks, and content creation.
- Career development advice including signposting opportunities and industry experience.
- A reference when applying for other jobs or positions.
- Regular news and updates from the museum visitor services team, as well as optional social activities and knowledge-sharing opportunities with fellow volunteers and museum colleagues.
- Reimbursement of travel expenses up to the value of a London Zones 1-6 travelcard.
- If you are a UCL student, affiliation with the Student Union Volunteering Service and associated benefits.
To apply
We are currently recruiting new volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering with us, please complete our online application form.
We are committed to making our application process accessible to the broadest range of potential volunteers and hence, if you prefer a different application format, please email us at the address given below. Applications close at midnight on Sunday 13 October 2024.
Following the end of the application window, we will be in touch to advise whether you have been invited to a volunteer assessment afternoon. These are scheduled to take place on Saturday 26 and Wednesday 30 October 2024, you will only need to attend one. Regrettably due to the volume of applications, we are unable to provide feedback to unsuccessful applicants who are not invited to an assessment afternoon.
We endeavour to make reasonable adjustments for those who face barriers to attending the assessment. Please contact us using the email address below if you would like to discuss additional requirements.
Data Privacy Notice
UCL will treat all information submitted as part of your application in line with UCL's Data Protection Policy.