How to become a museum attendant
You can get into this job through:
- an apprenticeship
- volunteering
- applying directly
Apprenticeship
You could get into this work through apprenticeships that give you skills in customer service, security, museums education or conservation.
Relevant subjects include:
- facilities services operative intermediate apprenticeship
- customer service intermediate apprenticeship
- cultural learning and participation officer advanced apprenticeship
- museums technician advanced apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
More Information
Volunteering
Volunteering in a museum and getting work experience will help you get a better understanding of the role, and to make contacts who may help you to find paid work.
Direct Application
You do not need any particular qualifications to become a museum assistant, although you'll usually need a good general standard of education, especially in English and maths.
There is a lot of competition for jobs and you may find some museums and galleries ask for a certain level of qualification, like A levels or equivalent.
You'll be in a stronger position when looking for work if you have:
- experience in customer care or facilities security
- an interest in museums and their services
- volunteering experience in a museum, gallery or heritage attraction
More Information
Career tips
There is a lot of competition for paid work in museums. Many people work as volunteers to make connections and get experience to move into paid positions later on.
You can search for suitable volunteering opportunities through sites like:
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Museums Association for your professional development.
Further information
You can get more advice on working in museums from the Museums Association.