Summary
As we embark on the second stage of our three-year conservation works, Corfe Castle has been given permission by Historic England to install a viewing platform to the top of the South Annex. The platform, or ‘The King's View', is part of the ‘Caring for Corfe Castle' fundraising project to raise income to assist with the ongoing conservation works.
This is a golden opportunity for the National Trust to open up an area of the castle that hasn't been seen or visited in nearly 20 years.
As one of our storytellers you will be delivering guided tours of the castle and taking supporters up on the viewing platform to see the views of the surrounding Isle of Purbeck landscapes.
This role is an hourly paid, fixed term role. Wherever possible we aim to offer a consistent working pattern, but we're looking for flexibility as it may be necessary for us to alter this pattern from time to time to suit the needs of the business. We'd give you as much notice of this as possible.
What it's like to work here One of Britain's most iconic and evocative survivors of the English Civil War, partially demolished in 1646 by the Parliamentarians, Corfe Castle is now cared for by a team that works smoothly together to ensure that our 250,000 annual visitors have a really great experience in a beautiful setting.
The Storyteller role will be reporting into the Senior Programming and Partnership officer so they will be working as part of the Visitor Experience department.
For more information about our property please visit corfe-castle
What you'll be doing As we embark on the second stage of our three-year conservation works, Corfe Castle has been given permission by Historic England to install a viewing platform to the top of the South Annex. The platform, or ‘The King's View', is part of the ‘Caring for Corfe Castle' fundraising project to raise income to assist with the ongoing conservation works.
This is a golden opportunity for the National Trust to open up an area of the castle that hasn't been seen or visited in nearly 20 years. As one of our storytellers you will be delivering guided tours of the castle and taking supporters up on the viewing platform to see the views of the surrounding Isle of Purbeck landscapes.
Responsibilities:
- Lead guided tours through the castle's ruins, sharing your knowledge of its history and legends with visitors.
- Work closely with our Welcome and Visitor Experience teams to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
- Participate in training sessions to maintain high standards of storytelling and customer service.
- Talk about the importance of the conservation works currently underway, and the need to fundraise to pay for the ongoing project.
Who we're looking for We are seeking a charismatic and imaginative Storyteller to join a small team of guides at Corfe Castle. As our Storyteller, you will lead guided tours through the ruined castle bringing to live its rich history by captivating and enthralling our supporters. The tours will finish with a once in lifetime experience by climbing to the very top of the castle to the King's View. The King's View will provide a uniquely royal perspective of Corfe Castle village and the surrounding Isle of Purbeck landscapes.
- This role will involve working at height, the King's View platform will be installed near the very top of the ruined castle itself. A love of working outdoors in all weather
- A passion for storytelling and history
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
- Ability to think creatively and improvise.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to work well under pressure.
- Familiarity with the history of Corfe Castle is desirable but not essential (we will provide comprehensive training) Ability to work flexible hours to include some weekends.
The package
The National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever' at its heart. We're working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It's important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we're for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.
- Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary
- Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)
- Rental deposit loan scheme
- Season ticket loan
- EV car lease scheme
- Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts
- Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.
- Flexible working whenever possible
- Employee assistance programme
- Free parking at most Trust places
Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.