JORVIK Viking Centre Collections Up-Close Volunteer
What Do Collections Up-Close Volunteers Do?
Our JORVIK Collections Up-Close Volunteers offer visitors enhanced access and engagement to JORVIK’s unique collections and the rich archaeology of the Coppergate dig. Through collections of archaeological objects from the excavation they offer visitors a chance to further explore the dig and the discoveries it made.
Where Will I Be Volunteering?
The JORVIK Viking Centre was first opened in 1984 after a five-year long excavation. It stands on the site of the famous Coppergate dig which revealed some of the most famous and outstanding discoveries in modern archaeology. Find out more at www.jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk/about.
Who Does the Role Suit?
Involvement in the Collections Up-Close role is ideal for someone who is interested in Viking history, archaeology or heritage interpretation, gaining hands-on experience of finds handling or seeking an opportunity to meet new people and be a part of York Archaeology’s work, York’s heritage and the JORVIK experience . Skills and Interests You don’t need guiding experience or historical or archaeological knowledge but volunteers should:
- Be passionate about York’s Viking past, Viking history or archaeology
- Be confident engaging and initiating conversation with a wide range of visitors.
- Enjoy being part of a team with other staff and volunteers in a busy museum attraction
Volunteer Tasks
- Provide a warm welcome to visitors to the JORVIK Viking Centre
- Use a diverse collection of finds from the Coppergate excavation to help visitors discover the incredible archaeology of Coppergate
- Offer visitors opportunities for close-up engagement with archaeological objects and replicas Induction,
Training & Support
Video and written training materials are provided with all the information you need to get started volunteering. We will also provide an opportunity for you to attend a group Welcome and Training session. You will then have the option to shadow an existing volunteer or book your first session at a time which suits you. Throughout your volunteering with York Archaeology you will be supported by the Volunteering and Site Management teams
What Will I Gain from Volunteering?
Contribute to the work of York Archaeology : Our volunteers contribute to the work of our educational charity by helping us deliver a great visitor experience and engage people with the history and archaeology of York.
Meet new people : You will be part of a friendly team of volunteers and staff at JORVIK, and get the opportunity to talk to visitors with a wide range of interests and backgrounds.
Engage with a unique collection : You will get hands on with a collection of archaeological artefacts from the world famous Coppergate dig.
Learn something new : Volunteers will be given training on the history and archaeology of Viking York, the Coppergate dig, and how to interpret and present archaeology to the public.
An active routine that suits you : With flexible, self-selected volunteering sessions available volunteers will have a regular, social and fun activity to take part in that fits around their lives.
Hours & Involvement
Volunteers can get involved on a flexible, self-scheduled basis for two to six hour sessions. You will be able to choose the times you come in each month via our online system or ask us to book you in for regular slots.
Uniform
You are welcome to wear your own smart casual clothing suitable for a professional museum environment when volunteering in this role, teamed with a YA Volunteer branded lanyard and ID badge. We ask that you avoid some items of clothing such as ripped jeans or graphic t-shirts.
Further guidance is available from the Volunteering Team. YA branded polo shirts and sweatshirts are available on request.
Contact
York Archaeology is committed to reflecting the diversity of our audiences and reducing barriers to volunteering. If you are interested in volunteering but have questions, including about support or access needs, that you’d like to ask before applying please contact our friendly volunteering team by emailing volunteer@yorkat.co.uk or calling 01904 952320.
