Julie Cassidy - Belvedere - Class of 2002

A Career in Museums

I have been involved with National Museums Liverpool for the past six years. My journey began as a volunteer, and ends, at present day, with my current position as Operational Visitor Services Manager for World Museum Liverpool (formerly Liverpool Museum). I shall now explain the steps I took to reach where I am today.

At the end of my GCSE year, I undertook a two-week long work experience placement, as a demonstrator in the Natural History Centre. This is an interactive, ‘hands-on’ centre, which presents visitors with the unique opportunity to handle real museum specimens – such as python skin, elephant teeth and even…dinosaur poo!! I thoroughly enjoyed my placement, so much so that I went on to volunteer for a couple of days a week during the summer.

At sixth form, students were given the opportunity to take part in a ‘Community Service Programme’. This meant that every Wednesday afternoon, we could help out at an establishment in the community. I was lucky enough to be welcomed back to the Museum, and volunteered there every Wednesday afternoon for 2 years.

Before starting my science degree at University, I spotted a job advert for a weekend Planetarium Operator, and was successful in my application. Even though I thoroughly enjoyed this role, it didn’t offer many hours – 2 weekends a month max. However, not so long after, another weekend job was advertised for a Natural History Centre demonstrator, and, again, I was lucky enough to be accepted. I was extremely fortunate because the hours of work were 2 weekends out of every 3 – which fitted in perfectly with my Planetarium hours. During holiday periods, I did extra hours, not only in these jobs, but as a facilitator in the temporary exhibitions.

After leaving university, I was offered extra hours within the Natural History Centre, and within Exhibitions. With the combination of the 3 jobs (including the Planetarium), I was now up to full time hours. I enjoyed working within so many areas of the Museum, and all the time I was gaining experience: presenting to groups, managing volunteers, budget and project management - the list went on.

Recently, a job opportunity of ‘Operational Visitor Services Manager’ arose.  I thoroughly enjoy interacting with visitors of all ages and backgrounds and wanted to help improve visitor services wherever possible. I was successful in my application, and now, at the age of 22, am responsible for all operational activities within World Museum Liverpool. I also have an important role in developing visitor service standards. I am in charge of a department of 34 people, and am enjoying the challenges that this brings. I am very happy in my new role and look forward to the opportunities the future holds.

For anyone considering a career in Museums, I would give the following basic advice:

1.      Start off with some volunteering – Museum work is rather competitive nowadays and voluntary work will show commitment, as well as give you experience. Write to a specific department (Egyptology/zoology/ethnology etc.), or keep an eye on museum websites for volunteering opportunities.

2.      Decide which area of museum work would best suit you. Opportunities can be split into these main areas: behind the scenes (administrative/research/curatorial/collections-based), and front of house (public programmes/learning/exhibitions/gallery services)

3.      Make yourself known – once you’ve got your ‘foot in the door’, familiarise yourself with other departments – you many find you like one of these more than the one you started with

4.      There are a number of higher education establishments which offer museum/heritage courses. A qualification specific to museums, plus relevant experience, will make you very employable in this field

5.      Be prepared for a varied role: interacting with visitors of all ages, abilities and backgrounds, working with school and community groups, as well as with marvellous specimens from all over the world.

For more information on a Museums career, please contact Julie Cassidy by email.