Job Description

TO APPLY FOR THIS ROLE YOU WILL NEED TO COMPLETE AN APPLICATION FORM, AVAILABLE FROM OUR WEBSITE.

OVERALL DESCRIPTION

:

Barnstaple Town Council is proud to preserve and celebrate the town's rich and fascinating heritage. We are custodians of some of Barnstaple's most treasured historic buildings and artefacts, including the Grade II listed Guildhall--a beautiful and atmospheric space with untapped potential.

We're looking for a passionate and committed individual who shares our enthusiasm for local history and wants to help us care for these heritage assets while making them more accessible to the public. This role is central to delivering our new heritage programme and shaping an exciting future for heritage in Barnstaple.

RESPONSIBLE TO

: Heritage & Cultural Manager and Community Manager.

MAIN CONTACTS

: Members of the public, staff, volunteers, councillors, charities and local organisations. Partnership working with staff from other organisations including other local authorities.

SALARY GRADE

: SCP 8-11 25,992 - 27,269

HOURS

: 37 hours per week to include weekend and evening work.

JOB PURPOSE

:

The Heritage Engagement Officer will be responsible for developing and delivering public engagement programmes, educational outreach, and community events that promote Barnstaple's rich heritage. This role involves working closely with the Heritage & Cultural Manager, as well as schools, community groups, and volunteers, to create engaging and informative experiences that highlight the town's historical and cultural significance. The postholder will also assist the Heritage & Cultural Manager with additional duties as required to support the wider heritage programme.

PRINCIPAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

:

Work closely with the Heritage and Cultural Manager to support the delivery of the Council's heritage programme. Plan and deliver engaging public programmes and events that celebrate Barnstaple's heritage, working from a variety of venues including the Guildhall, St Anne's Arts & Community Centre, and other locations as required. This role will involve being based at different sites depending on the needs of the programme. To deliver engaging guided tours of the town and heritage buildings for a range of audiences, including members of the public, school groups, and community organisations. While also supporting the distribution of accurate and accessible historical information to the community through a variety of channels, with the potential to serve as a point of contact for heritage-related enquiries, including a future presence within the town's information centre. Create and implement educational outreach initiatives for schools and community groups. To assist in the recruitment and management of the Town Councils volunteers in support of the Council's activities. Coordinating and supporting volunteers involved in heritage projects and events. Interpret and present heritage information in an engaging and accessible manner. Collaborate with local organisations and stakeholders to enhance community involvement. Support the care, cataloguing, and long-term conservation of the Town Council's heritage artefacts and collections. Assist in preparing and presenting these items for public events, ensuring they are displayed safely and engagingly. Evaluate the effectiveness of programmes and events and make recommendations for improvement. Provide content and time to assist with monitoring and maintenance of social media and the Council website. Assist with the promotion and marketing of heritage activities through various channels. To attend staff meetings and training, including work towards the academic elements of the role, as required. Provide general support to the Heritage and Cultural Manager as needed, including administrative and operational tasks.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 25,992.00-27,269.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Cycle to work scheme Flexitime Health & wellbeing programme On-site parking Sick pay
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Ability to commute/relocate:

Barnstaple EX32 8LS: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Education:

GCSE or equivalent (preferred)
Experience:

Public Service: 1 year (preferred) Heritage or community work based role: 1 year (required)
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 04/07/2025
Reference ID: Heritage Engagement Officer 2025