Opening up Archives is diversifying the archives profession by providing an entry into the sector for those who have not followed a traditional qualification route.
Instead of focusing on specific qualifications, the programme seeks people who can bring talent and energy to the archival world, who are keen to develop their skills, who want to engage with their local community, and who want to create better online services. It also encourages archives to recruit a broader range of skills, with staff that is more reflective of their community.
This is a collaborative project supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, The National Archives and several archive services from across England. The programme is for 13 full time, one year workplace traineeships in a range of specialist areas at host archives. Trainee specialisms include collection development, community engagement, online engagement, palaeography and digital preservation.
Recruitment for the 2012 intake is complete, and we are exploring extending the project for a further year.
For more information please contact the programme manager (Opening up Archives).
Meet the trainees
Read about the work of two of the trainees undertaking a placement as part of the Opening up Archives programme.
Ollie Taylor, trainee at Gloucestershire Archives
'For the last five years I've been teaching English and working in the library at Durham University. I was attracted to the position at Gloucester because I wanted to continue engaging with young people and other members of the public through education, but in a role that would also involve creating archive material with and bringing it to life for the wider community.
'The Opening up Archives scheme is an opportunity to do just this, and to develop professional skills, working knowledge, and real experience in an exciting career. I'm really looking forward to collaborating with lots of different people on Gloucestershire Archives' Hidden Lives project.'
Amy Butler, trainee at the Borthwick Institute, University of York
'I recently studied for a degree in chemistry and, after graduating, was keen to get involved in a more creative and community-orientated role. I spent time volunteering at local museums and history groups; this was extremely fulfilling and cemented my decision to pursue a career in the cultural sector.
'I was overjoyed to hear about the Opening up Archives scheme as it allows people like me, who don't have a traditional archive background, to get involved with the nation's archived heritage, and also to develop new ways of sharing this fascinating material with the public.
'My training will, I hope, also enable me to give back to my local community as we work together to make archive resources more accessible and interactive.'
