our careers cafe welcomes iwm north
Our students enjoy an inspirational presentation today on careers in Heritage
At lunchtime today, we were delighted to welcome visiting representatives from the fantastic IWM North: training manager Bonnie (pictured right) and retail and admissions manager Claire, to deliver a presentation to our students on careers in the Heritage sector, the latest event in our Careers Cafe programme.
We are, of course, fortunate to have such an amazing museum in Manchester, one that contributes so enormously not only to our regional and national wartime heritage, but to our culture; and today was a tremendous opportunity for our students to learn more not only about the IWM and its vital work in collecting, preserving and presenting objects and stories that give an insight into people's experiences of war, but to gain a fascinating insight into the operational side of heritage, and the many different aspects of working in the field.
Bonnie discussed the historical and cultural importance of heritage work, and its crucial acquisition and preservation of the past for present and future generations, including, in the case of the IWM: the acquisition and maintenance of expansive collections comprising in the region of 20000 pieces of art, 20,000 diaries and letters, 150 million feet of film, 10 million photographs, and 56000 hours of sound media, such as interviews and broadcasts.
Our students also learnt about how to get involved through volunteering: the IWM has around 1000 volunteers at present, and Bonnie shared how engaging in this role not only vitally supports the museum, but is greatly personally and professionally rewarding.
IWM Retail and Admissions manager Claire detailed her personal journey into the sector, progressing from A levels to a degree in History, and the development of her career from early experiences while studying.
Claire shared the key skills and qualifications required to pursue a career in the field, in addition to the many and varied day-to-day facets of her role, about which she is clearly passionate.
Claire and Bonnie concluded by fielding questions from our students, who were keen to find out more.
Today marked another really great opportunity for our students to engage directly with professionals in sectors in which they are keen to pursue careers, and it was a truly fascinating insight into working in an area of such cultural and historical significance.
With huge thanks to Bonnie and Claire for giving their time to visit and inspire our students today, and to Head of Careers Mrs Kinder for organising the Careers Cafe programme of events.
For more information on IWM North: