Marc Bucklee
Seasonal Site Supervisor for Downhill Demesne and Mussenden Temple
What is the best degree for a job with the National Trust?
If you want to focus on the visitor experience within the National Trust some sort of degree that involves tourism and travel is useful. We receive visitors from all over the world and numbers are growing every year, so communication is key. We also find degrees in History helpful. I am currently studying at Stranmillis College in Belfast and working for the National Trust is helping me pursue a job in teaching as I’m gaining leadership and communication skills.
How does someone obtain a position with the National Trust?
Part time experience can be important. The National Trust recruit seasonal staff every year, a fixed contract Feb – Sept. You would get 1 or 2 staff applying every year who have worked for the National Trust before, which is an advantage as you don’t need to train them. I worked 3 years as a Visitor Experience Ranger before being offered the Supervisor position, which entailed dealing with the general public, learning the history of the site and maintaining a high standard of customer satisfaction. Our website is a great starting point. There is an online application form, stating where you have used certain skills previously and questions asking about your passion for history and heritage. Once you have passed the online assessment, you are asked to a face to face interview, where, if successful, your position is confirmed. The National Trust also take placement students, for example, History undergraduates are allowed to assist the rangers in the practical conservation and development of properties.
What does the job really entail?
My job is to ensure that every visitor to the site has the best possible visit. To achieve this I lead a team of Visitor Experience Rangers who are based throughout the site interacting with the visitors making sure they are getting the help and information they need. My job features other things too, including dealing with finances and organising staff training.
What are the best things about the job?
I would have to say my office, the site- Downhill Demesne. It doesn’t matter how many times I am up there I’m always amazed by the beauty the site holds. And the weddings in Mussenden Temple itself, which are magnificent. Students looking to do something in planning/events managing mixed with nature and the outdoors, might find this perfect! (GW)
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