Explore the vibrant world of local mining culture and become a volunteer in our incredible Mining Art Gallery!
Our Mining Art Gallery is not just an art collection; it is an intimate and aw-inspiring journey into the heart of coal mines and the local communities which grew out from them. Created in partnership with Dr. Robert McManners OBE and Gillian Wales, your role as a MAG engager will empower you to lead our visitors through the captivating stories of mining depicted in over 420 works by renowned local mining artists – Tom McGuinness and Norman Cornish and many more!
As a MAG engager, you will be at the forefront of connecting with visitors, sharing the incredible stories portrayed in the artwork. Your thoughtful and clear interpretation will ensure that our visitor leaves with a memorable and enriching experience. Join us in us in making the Mining Art Gallery a vibrant hub of discovery and connection!
- Greet our visitors with friendliness and approachability
- Engage with our visitors and provide helpful and informative answers to our visitor’s thoughts and observations
- Assist in the invigilation of the Mining Art Gallery spaces to enhance the protection and security
- Help to ensure visitors’ safety and enjoyment, adhering to health and safety guidelines
- Assist in the evacuation of visitors during emergency situations
No previous experience or qualifications are necessary for this fantastic opportunity to acquire new skills. We believe this role is perfect for individuals who:
• Are 17 years or older
• Possess excellent communication skills, and are adept at initiating conversations with people of all ages
• Radiate a welcoming, approachable and helpful demeanour
• Are proactive with a positive nature, an interest in providing an excellent visitor experience
• Enthusiastic and willing to learn about the Mining Art Gallery which includes completing training for new exhibitions
• Reliable, well-presented, friendly and polite
• Comfortable collaborating as part of a team
• Are able to undertake the activity with and without supervision
We are excited to welcome people with some or all of these qualities to the team.
The Auckland Project Bishop Auckland The Mining Art Gallery the Market Place
Don’t worry we’ve got you, with a warm welcome and some great training:
You’ll kick things off with a friendly welcome session, a great way to dive into your new adventure. Our fantastic Visitor Operations team members will be your go to guides, showing you the ropes and making sure you are ok.
You won’t be flying solo! An experienced buddy will be right there with you, making sure you have what you need to understand the role.
Need a hand? Our amazing supervisors are on standby to lend a hand and provide the support you need.
But wait, there’s more! We’ve also got Mining Art Gallery briefing notes to make learning a breeze. We are all about setting you up for a success on this journey.
Your volunteering will be a big deal, you will be helping make Bishop Auckland even better. Here’s what we need from you, simple and clear:
• Be on time and reliable, show up for your shift ready to go.
• Dress the part – just follow our advice on what to wear.
• Be buddies with everyone – staff, volunteers and visitors We are all in this together!
• Learn the ropes – take the training we offer, and join meetings when they happen.
• Spread the positivity – you are our ambassador, keep it upbeat.
• Safety first – know what to do in case of fire or emergency.
• Stick to the rules – our policies and procedures are our team playbook, let’s play by them
Here’s what you can expect from this fantastic opportunity – clear and important:
• A warm and delightful experience for you and our visitors
• The chance to learn and develop fresh skills and experiences; fine tune your excellent customer service skills
• Fair respect and treatment – you’re a valued part of the team!
• Joining a team that’s not just motivated but also friendly and dedicated.
• We see and appreciate the difference you make – recognition and gratitude are part of the deal.
• Meeting a diverse range of people, making connections and forging new friendships.
• Personal satisfaction that you have truly enhanced our visitors’ experience.
• Valuable work experience, especially if you have an eye to a future in Heritage and Culture
• A CV and job application boost – real, hands-on experience to set you apart.
Volunteers are given an annual pass to access all the visitor attractions.
