Explainer Volunteer

Do you have a passion for history and the outdoors? We are looking for energetic people, keen to offer their time as part of our new team of volunteers at Old Wardour Castle. As an explainer volunteer you will be based around the castle ruins and will be a friendly point of contact for all our visitors. You will answer questions about the castle, its' features and share the site's unique history.

What will I be doing?

• Provide a warm and friendly welcome for all visitors
• Help convey the story of our sites by actively engaging with visitors in answering their questions, telling stories about the house or collection, and helping with family trails
• Help preserve and protect the collection
• Attend relevant training courses and workshops to increase your knowledge of our sites

What skills, qualities and experience do I need?

We need people who:

• Have a friendly, enthusiastic manner and enjoy dealing with people from all walks of life
• Have confidence in their ability to communicate well with all age groups
• Are keen to learn more about our sites
• Are happy to be on their own with members of the public

What support and training will I receive?

Full training and support will be provided to help you settle into your role. You will receive:

• A site and role induction with your dedicated Volunteer Manager
• All relevant health & safety training and clear guidance on how to address security or safety issues. You will always have access to a member of English Heritage staff

What will English Heritage expect from me?

• To be the friendly face of English Heritage and deliver excellent customer service
• To be reliable in attendance and dependable
• Help us maintain the highest standards of presentation at our sites and properties
• To wear English Heritage volunteer uniform where provided
• Help us protect our properties and collections by understanding and following our security and safety procedures
• Maintain good working relationships with staff, other volunteers and members of the public
• Attend appropriate training and learn about the work of English Heritage
• Observe organisational policy and procedures
• Safeguard confidential information about English Heritage and let us know about anything relating to your role or the work of English Heritage that you think might be controversial
• Any documentary or other material (including any copyright applying thereto) you are provided with or created by you in respect of your volunteering will be the property and copyright of English Heritage (unless otherwise agreed in writing)

What can I expect from English Heritage?

• A welcoming and enjoyable experience
• To be treated fairly and with respect
• Recognition and appreciation for your contribution
• A full induction and training programme with on-going support
• Reimbursement of reasonable local travel costs between home and volunteering location within agreed limits
• A certificate to demonstrate work carried out for English Heritage is available on request to show future employers or further education providers
• You will be covered by English Heritage’s own indemnity arrangements in respect of all liabilities that may result from your appointment as a volunteer