Volunteering at The Higgins Bedford
Did you know that more than 21 million people volunteer in the UK at least once a year, contributing an estimated £22.6bn to the UK economy?
Volunteers mean that we can reach more people, enhance the visitor experience and deliver more activities and events.
With a fantastic team of over 100 volunteers, there’s a variety of roles in different areas of The Higgins including:
- Galleries
- Learning
- Events
- Collections
- Marketing
- Gardening
Click here to read about the experiences of our volunteers at The Higgins Bedford.
In return for your time, we offer:
- The opportunity to be part of a friendly and lively team of staff and volunteers passionate about culture
- Choice about when you volunteer, how often and in your chosen area
- Full induction
- Ongoing training and development
- Mentoring and support from staff and experienced volunteers
- Social activities
- A monthly newsletter keeping you informed about what’s happening at The Higgins and any volunteering opportunities across Libraries & Culture.
- Discount at The Higgins Pantry, on most items in The Higgins Bedford shop and reduced membership of The Friends.
If this appeals to you, then please fill out an application form, or email thehiggins@bedford.gov.uk for more information.
We're currently looking for Learning Volunteers:
Description
Join a team of museum volunteers that support the learning team with school visits and holiday activities. This role involves supporting staff with the preparation and delivery of school sessions and holiday activities.
Tasks might include:
· Assist in preparing education studios/gallery space prior to session and clearing up at end
· Support session leaders and creative providers in delivering history sessions or creative workshops for school groups and families
· Guide groups during self-led visits
· Offer short talks/tours to students
Skills Required
An enthusiasm for learning in a range of settings and passion for the collections and exhibitions at The Higgins Bedford
· Excellent communication skills
· Enthusiastic and able to work with people of all ages and backgrounds
· Good interpersonal skills – welcoming, friendly
· Positive, encouraging, patient, sensitive/ responsive to people’s needs
· Practical, organised, resourceful, adaptable
· A willingness to learn and take on new challenges
Benefits from this role
Gain skills in teaching and working with young people, develop inter-personal and communication skills, improve confidence, training opportunities, shop discount and other benefits and be part of a award winning friendly, volunteering team,
To Apply
Email LibraryandCultureVolunteers@bedford.gov.uk to ask for an application form. The application form can be returned by email or post to The Higgins Bedford, Castle Lane, Bedford, MK40 3XD.