Volunteer Journey - Toby
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I started volunteering at Selly Manor back in September 2022, as part of a work-experience placement at my school. I would mainly be based in the garden, helping to maintain the grounds, which included weeding the flowerbeds, watering plants and collecting leaves in the Autumn. This was very new to me, because I had never been to Selly Manor before, so I got to meet new faces and familiarise myself with the site.
I soon branched out and helped the museum staff by dusting the objects and furniture around the museum, as well as keeping the museum areas tidy and clearing away after events. At that point, I felt very much like part of the team!
I then finished my volunteering placement in July 2023, to partake in a supported internship for a year. Once it was finished, I started back as a volunteer at Selly Manor, as I was looking for something extra to do alongside studying at college. I have been volunteering every Thursday afternoon ever since.
I have managed to get involved with a variety of different jobs around the museum, such as serving the visitors at the museum and using the till, preparing resources for upcoming events and tidying up once the school groups have left. I also helped with events on some evenings, including serving refreshments for some. More recently, I have taken part in more detailed collections care, where I have learnt how to clean the details in carved furniture in the collection and leather objects, whilst also exploring what can damage collection objects (such as woodworm) and how to prevent further problems. This included replacing the bug traps in each room of the museum and examining them to see if there was any evidence of pests.
Not only have I been involved at the museum itself, but I have also visited the BVT library and archives, which was very fascinating as I got to look at various different objects that were quite rare. I have also taken part in cleaning the Rest House, which we have taken over in the recent months.
For me, the best bits about volunteering at Selly Manor have been getting to work with the team and other volunteers, getting to know a lot about the museum and the history of Bournville. Every day I have volunteered there has always been thoroughly enjoyable, and I have always looked forward to coming in every week. Another thing that I love about this place is how amazing the team have been with me. I have felt very supported by them all, especially when I have been uncertain about things. I cannot thank Dan, India, Louise, Mary, Megan and Emma enough for going above and beyond with helping me out!
Written by Toby Kerry, Volunteer
Edited by Megan Ward, Museum Assistant