Museum Offers Great Opportunities For Young People

The Devil’s Porridge Museum at Eastriggs near Annan, Dumfries and Galloway is working closely with young people in exciting new ways. Conscious of the limited opportunities available to many young people today and that they have been nicknamed ‘Generation Covid’ the Museum is stepping up to offer as many opportunities as possible to the community.

Morgan Leggett has just completed a year-long Digital Marketing Modern Apprenticeship at the Museum which saw him take over the Museum’s website, online shop and social media. “We’ve really enjoyed having Morgan with us and we’re delighted that he has successfully completed his apprenticeship.” Said Judith Hewitt, Museum Manager.   “We’ve also been really pleased to be able to offer placements for three local young people to complete their SVQ Level 3 in Museum Gallery Practice.  This course is offered by Museums Galleries Scotland and is an exciting opportunity to learn and work in the Museums Sector.”

The Devil’s Porridge Museum, which is mainly volunteer run and led, is now working on its own in-house qualification scheme to offer extended work experience placements, internships and training in all aspects of Museum work.  “From Front of House and café work to behind the scenes research, collections and conservation care, we’re aiming to teach lots of practical skills with a recognised qualification being achieved at the end of each unit” continued Judith, “This qualification could be used to enhance UCAS applications, towards Duke of Edinburgh or Saltire Awards and will greatly enhance the employability of the young people involved.  Plus, we hope it will be an enjoyable and interesting experience!”  Volunteering at the Museum and the new qualification are open to people of all ages.  To inquire email: [email protected] or phone 01461 700021.  “None of this would have been possible without the support of our funders: The Holywood Trust, Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Coastal Communities Fund and Museums Galleries Scotland.  We hope opportunities such as this offer a little ray of light to our community in these uncertain times.”