Bata Shoe Museum volunteers
If you love shoes and communicating with people this volunteer opportunity might well be for you! The Bata Shoe Museum is looking for volunteer docents. The information below provides some details of the role.
The Bata Shoe Museum aims to contribute to the knowledge and understanding of the role of footwear in the social and cultural life of mankind. It achieves this purpose by operating a public institution which acquires, conserves, researches, communicates and exhibits material evidence related to the history of footwear and shoemaking for the purposes of study, education and enjoyment. Volunteer docents help fulfill this mission by leading private tours for daycares, school groups, ESL classes, and adults.
Volunteer docents serve visitors to the Bata Shoe Museum by presenting accurate information of the history of the museum, the collection, and the architecture of the building. They deliver interactive educational programs that provide an enjoyable and meaningful experience for visitors of all ages, backgrounds, and levels of ability.
Skills Required:
Fluency in English
Excellent communication skills and comfortable with public speaking
Reliable and punctual
Ability to learn accurate, detailed information and present it effectively to diverse audiences
An interest in history, art, fashion, culture, and/or education
Basic computer skills, including the use of email
Courtesy, respect, and patience with visitors
Experience teaching, previous gallery or museum experience an asset
Energy and enthusiasm!
Training: New volunteers will receive training on the skills and responsibilities of docents, including presentation techniques, tips on working with various age groups, grade K-12 curriculum connections, object-based learning, gallery and hands-on collection content, and program policies. Volunteers will be invited to participate in additional in-service training and docent enrichment opportunities throughout the year. One-on-one support from BSM Education staff is always available!
The Introductory Docent Training Program consists of eight (8) sessions and meets twice weekly. Volunteers may choose from the following two options:
A) Monday and Wednesday evenings, 6:00pm-8:00pm, starting Monday September 23, 2013
B) Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, 1:00pm-3:00pm, starting Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Time Commitment: After successful completion of the docent training program, volunteers are asked to commit to leading at least one tour (2 hours) per week for a minimum of one year.
Benefits: Many of the Museum’s volunteers benefit personally and professionally by giving back to the community, meeting new people, networking with museum staff and volunteers, and gaining work-related skills.
The Bata Shoe Museum recognizes the significant contribution its volunteers make by holding volunteer appreciation events, nominating volunteers for Ontario Volunteer Service Awards; and by providing discounts in the Museum Shop, complimentary admission to many Toronto museums and attractions, tickets to selected BSM lectures and events, and numerous milestone awards for continuous service.
To apply for this position, email your cover letter and resume to:
Andrea Field, Education Coordinator
andrea@batashoemuseum.ca