Our JORVIK Collections Up-Close Volunteers offer visitors enhanced access and engagement to JORVIK’s unique collections and the rich archaeology of the Coppergate dig. Through collections of archaeological objects from the excavation they offer visitors a chance to further explore the dig and the discoveries it made.

Volunteer Tasks

• Use a diverse collection of finds from the Coppergate excavation to help visitors discover and engage with the incredible archaeology of Coppergate 
• During busy periods such as school holidays offer additional engagement outside the Centre with a collection of finds designed to orient people with the location of the dig and introduce them to the historic landscape through the environmental archaeology of Coppergate 
• Enhance the visitor experience by offering close-up engagement with archaeology

Skills and Interests

You don’t need guiding, historical or archaeological knowledge but volunteers should:

• Be passionate about York’s Viking past, Viking history or archaeology.
• Be confident engaging and initiating conversation with a wide range of visitors.
• Enjoy being part of a team with other staff and volunteers.

Where Will I Be Volunteering?

The JORVIK Viking Centre was first opened in 1984 after a five year long excavation. It stands on the site of the famous Coppergate dig which revealed some of the most famous and outstanding discoveries in modern archaeology. Find out more at https://www.jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk/about

Hours & Involvement

Volunteers get involved on a weekly or fortnightly basis for two to six hour sessions. You will be able to flexibly choose the times you come in each month via our online system or ask us to book you in for regular slots. We generally ask for a commitment of at least one session per month for around 6 months.

Uniform

You are welcome to wear your own smart casual clothing suitable for a professional museum environment when volunteering in this role, teamed with a YA Volunteer branded lanyard and ID badge. We ask that you avoid some items of clothing such as ripped jeans or graphic t-shirts. Further guidance is available from the Volunteering Team. YA branded polo shirts and sweatshirts are available on request. 

Induction, Training & Support 

Video and written training materials are provided with all the information you need to get started volunteering. We will also provide an opportunity for you to attend a group Welcome and Training session. You will then have the option to shadow an existing volunteer or book your first session at a time which suits you. Throughout your volunteering with York Archaeology you will be supported by the Volunteering and Site Management teams.

Application Timescales & Contact

For applications received before 18th September, Group Application Meetings will take place on 30th September and 1st October and Welcome & Training Sessions for applicants we are able to match to a role will take place on 14th and 15th October. 

For applications received between 19th September and 6th November, Group Application Meetings will take place on 13th and 19th November and Welcome & Training Sessions for applicants we are able to match to a role will take place on 2nd and 3rd December.

For applications received between 7th November and 7th January, Group Application Meetings will take place on 13th and 14th January and Welcome & Training Sessions for applicants we are able to match to a role will take place on 3rd and 4th February.

After application you will be asked to register with our My Impact volunteer management system to book onto a Group Application meeting and, if we can successfully match you to a role, to sign up to sessions through our rota system.