Museum Object Handling Volunteer

Who we are:

Based on a world heritage site, the Science and Industry Museum charts 250 years of world-changing discoveries and innovations. The Industrial Revolution began here in Manchester, and at the Museum, we care for a globally important heritage site comprising five listed buildings, two of them listed Grade 1. 

This site was the original terminus of the world’s first inter-city railway and our characteristic 1830 Warehouse epitomises Manchester’s 19th-century reputation as the 'warehouse of the western world'.

We combine the distinctive appeal of our historic site with a vibrant contemporary science programme, making connections between the past and the present, between scientific theory and real-world applications.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for someone who: 

• Enjoys learning new information and sharing this with others 

• Has a passion for interacting and engaging with the public, enjoying talking to a wide range of people from different backgrounds 
• Is friendly and happy to approach visitors 
• Has an interest in the museum, narrative themes and collections 

We ask all volunteers to show inclusive behaviours, value everyone’s contribution, and promote a culture of openness.    

What would you be doing as a volunteer? 

You will be supporting the Learning team in delivering the Inspire Futures aims by engaging visitors with our collection of handling objects. You will connect visitors' own experiences with the historic collections on display by telling stories and provoking conversation with our handling collection.

The handling collection features historical items from printing blocks and cotton shuttles linking to our Textiles Gallery, to contemporary objects supporting upcoming family holiday programmes that changes every few months.

In this role you’ll be: 

• A welcoming, friendly face for our visitors to engage with. 
• Delivering object handling sessions with a small collection of specially chosen objects linking to the programme and/or gallery themes and content. 
• Engaging with the gallery and/or programme by being knowledgeable about the content and sharing this with visitors.  
• Engaging visitors with their knowledge of the objects and programme/gallery themes, and reciprocally learning from the people they meet. 
• Signposting visitors to related content to explore further and wider exhibitions and programming across the site to support their visit. 

What are the benefits of volunteering with us? 

As a Learning Object Handling Volunteer, you will gain and develop skills and experience in customer service, presenting and communicating to a variety of audiences. You will also learn how to safely handle museum objects and find out more about the museum’s collection and narrative themes. 

We want to ensure you have a rewarding experience with us. That’s why you’ll:  

• Learn and develop from our volunteer programme training  
• Receive discounts for our café and shop, along with free entry into our exhibitions and events 
• Receive a reference from us - we provide references for all our volunteers 

Key Dates 

• Welcome Induction - 30th April from 13.30  
• Object Handling Training - Tuesday 14th May