Learning & Engagement Manager
- Full time
- £33,000
- On site: Livingston (West Lothian)
- Closing 26th July 2024
- Advertised from 18th June 2024
- Real Living Wage. Equivalent of 40 hrs. per week
Role
Almond Valley Heritage Trust is a charity with a mission to promote, celebrate and preserve the extraordinary heritage and environment of West Lothian for future generations. The Trust operate the Almond Valley Heritage Centre; a popular visitor attraction and rare breeds farm based in the historic setting of Livingston Mill, and the museum of the Scottish Shale Oil Industry. The museum is recognised as being of national importance to Scotland, whilst the farm benefits from accreditation from the Rare Breeds Survival Trust for our vital work to conserve and protect rare breeds including Clydesdale horses, Tamworth pigs, North Ronaldsay sheep & Bagot goats.
Almond Valley is a staple attraction for intergenerational family audiences throughout Central Scotland and beyond, welcoming over 130,000 visitors per year. This is an exciting period for the Trust, as we look towards deepening engagement in heritage and conservation through the expansion of our events and learning & engagement programme. We have big ambitions to enrich our visitor experience through the provision of a first class, creative learning & events programme, considering fresh perspectives on our collections and heritage and exploring forward facing narratives that inspire positive action in the area of climate change.
Working cross-sector, in collaboration, we aim to foster a spirit of discovery, to explore and champion our human potential, past, present and future, building a shared understanding of the value of our heritage and inspiring the next generation of history makers.
Role of the Learning & Engagement Manager
This is a new role, reflecting our ambitions to further amplify our work in the area of public and school learning and engagement and presents an opportunity for an ambitious L&E practitioner to play a lead role in shaping our work in this area.
Building upon our success to date, the Learning & Engagement Manager will work with internal and external stakeholders to create and implement a dynamic, highly innovative and imaginative STEAM based events and learning programme aimed at visitors and our growing network of schools who regularly frequent Almond Valley Heritage Centre.
Harnessing our unique collection, rich natural and cultivated environment and illustration of sustainable and non sustainable sources of energy you will be responsible for conceiving and delivering public facing events aimed at a diverse family visitor base. In addition, you will work in collaboration with schools to enrich our school learning programme, responding to national priorities, which aligns with the Curriculum for Excellence and Learning for Sustainability.
Working across the organisation and harnessing the diverse skill set of our workforce and engaging with artists, scientists, storytellers and community and corporate leaders, you will contribute significantly towards our long term strategy and inspire the imaginators and innovators of the future.
The key responsibilities of the Learning & Engagement Manager will include:
- Lead on the design and implementation of an innovative creative events programme for children and families, bringing to life our collections and wider work of the Almond Valley Heritage Centre
- Develop a long term strategy to engage primary schools, engaging directly with schools and Learning for Sustainability leaders to devise a STEAM programme that responds to the Curriculum for Excellence
- Work across the organisation to develop and maintain high quality learning resources
- Engage artists, science communicators, storytellers and craft makers to further enrich our events and learning offer
- Carry out appropriate outreach activity with community groups to build awareness and engagement with Almond Valley Heritage Trust
- Contribute towards the interpretation and displays within the historic mill and farm buildings, and extending the public use of these spaces
- Work with the Almond Valley workforce to ensure a shared vision of success in this area and a common understanding of our learning & engagement programme
- Implement a longitudinal monitoring and evaluation framework to ensure that we are consistently measuring our performance against agreed outcomes
- Manage expense budgets for the learning and engagement programme
- Cultivate and maintain relationships with educators, scientists, community groups, and artists for the purpose of enriching our programme
- Represent Almond Valley Heritage Trust at annual conferences and other professional meetings as required
- Work with the Director on relevant grant applications or other fundraising, and in relevant matters of the Trust’s public profile
- Support the preparation of event plans, media/press briefings and marketing assets
- Perform other related duties as assigned
Essential Skills
- Minimum of 3 years of recent and progressive designing and delivering integrated creative learning and engagement events/experiences within an arts, culture or heritage setting engaging schools and young audiences and families
- Thorough and current knowledge of national education priorities including Learning for Sustainability and an understanding of theories and practices of learning
- Demonstrable experience of working with schools and communities to facilitate learning and engagement and or co created programmes
- Ability to prepare, monitor and manage budgets
- Knowledge of, and contacts in, the arts, cultural and heritage sector and experience of working collaborative to devise imaginative events and learning experiences
- Experience of supporting safeguarding procedures
- Ability to effectively manage multiple projects concurrently and effectively
- An excellent communicator; having a wonderful way with words, pictures and other media, and a broad digital competency
Desired Skills
- Project management experience and familiarity with project/event management systems
- Experience developing Risk Assessments and Methods Statements for events
Personal Qualities
- The ability to connect with, inspire and meaningfully engage with a broad range of people
- A strong commitment to Equality and Diversity
- A genuine passion for learning and discovery
- Self motivated and responsible able to lead by example and work collaboratively as part of a team
- Resourceful, practical and able to problem solve effectively
- A willingness to embrace new ideas and ways of working
The working pattern for this role is flexible though we anticipate that it will largely be Monday to Friday with occasional weekend and or event work to support our growing engagement ambition. The post will be based at Almond Valley Heritage Centre.
Holiday allocation:
- 32 days per annum including bank holidays
Pension:
- Automatically enrol team members into our workplace pension operated by Royal London
Workforce Benefits:
- Free on site car parking
- Staff Pass provides access to the site for free.
- ASVA Card Access, Team members have access to The Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions card which allows free entry to a huge range of visitor attractions throughout Scotland.
- Discount in the tearoom and gift shop
Application notes
Closing Date: Midnight, 26th July 2024
Interviews will be held the week commencing: 29th July 2024
TO APPLY – please email us at jobs@almondvalley.co.uk with a full CV, and a covering letter demonstrating your suitability for the role.
If you have any questions or wish to discuss the role further in advance of submitting an application please email director@almondvalley.co.uk
Please contact us if you let us know of any queries in relation to the application process or any reasonable adjustments that would help with your application or if you wish to receive the job description in other formats.
Equality and Diversity Commitment
Almond Valley is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to offering equal opportunity for all and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment and are working hard to create a space in which people from all walks of life see themselves.
We are committed to increasing the diversity of our team and encourage applications from people currently under-represented groups, targeting in particular people of the Global Majority and d/Deaf or disabled applicants.
Marketing & Communications Manager
- Full time
- £32,000
- Hybrid: Riddle’s Court, Edinburgh / Custom House, Leith (must be in one of the SHBT offices 3 days)
- Closing 13th January 2025
Scottish Historic Buildings Trust is excited to be recruiting for the role of Marketing & Communications Manager. The successful candidate will be responsible and accountable for the development and delivery of individual marketing and communication plans to promote every aspect of Trust activity to raise the profile of the Trust and develop key audiences. The role holder identifies new opportunities to engage with audiences and markets through promotional materials and creative campaigns including marketing across digital platforms, direct marketing, website development and public relations.
About Scottish Historic Buildings Trust
Scottish Historic Buildings Trust is a Charity and Building Preservation Trust with over 40 years’ experience saving derelict and redundant buildings throughout the whole of Scotland. Everyone has driven or walked past a forlorn and unloved historic building at some time. You may have wondered why it isn’t being used or why doesn’t someone do something with it? The answer is often complex and the solutions equally so. It takes a special group of people to identify a way forward and restore these buildings to the benefit of the community. SHBT is a dynamic and innovative charity that does just that and our Marketing & Communications Manager is key to our success.
Diversity
Scottish Historic Buildings Trust values the contribution of all our staff, whatever their background. Our recruitment decisions are based on fair, open processes, with appointment on merit. We welcome applications from everyone.
Further information
For an informal chat about the job, please contact Fiona Lawrence, Operations Manager, by email on fiona@shbt.org.uk
Scottish Historic Buildings Trust is excited to be recruiting for the role of Fundraising Officer. This is a new role which will contribute to our fundraising strategy over the next five years; working to create a new donor database, as well as launch in due course a new supporters’ scheme. Requiring creativity and ambition, we are keen to support the role holder with a training package and mentor, helping us shape the role and achieve realistic fundraising targets. This is an opportunity for someone keen to make a lasting contribution to one of Scotland’s leading heritage organisations.
Reporting to and working closely with the Director, you will contribute towards building our supporter base and developing fundraising income. Working closely with colleagues in Events, Communications and Marketing, you will maximise engagement with donors and voluntary income in support of our work as Scotland’s largest historic buildings preservation trust and our work across the country.
About Scottish Historic Buildings Trust
Scottish Historic Buildings Trust is a Charity and Building Preservation Trust with over 40 years’ experience saving derelict and redundant buildings throughout the whole of Scotland. Everyone has driven or walked past a forlorn and unloved historic building at some time. You may have wondered why it isn’t being used or why doesn’t someone do something with it? The answer is often complex and the solutions equally so. It takes a special group of people to identify a way forward and restore these buildings to the benefit of the community. SHBT is a dynamic and innovative charity that does just that and our Marketing & Communications Manager is key to our success.
Diversity
Scottish Historic Buildings Trust values the contribution of all our staff, whatever their background. Our recruitment decisions are based on fair, open processes, with appointment on merit. We welcome applications from everyone.
Further information
For an informal chat about the job, please contact Fiona Lawrence, Operations Manager, by email on fiona@shbt.org.uk
Project Manager – Saving the Home of Auld Lang Syne Project
- Full time
- £40,000 – £47,000
- Hybrid: Dumfries & Galloway
- Closing 31st December 2024
Role Summary
The Robert Burns Ellisland Trust (RBET) seeks a highly skilled Project Manager to lead the Saving the Home of Auld Lang Syne project, delivering significant conservation and adaptation works at Ellisland Museum and Farm. The post is supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund thanks to players of the National Lottery and South of Scotland Enterprise.
Introduction
The Robert Burns Ellisland Trust (RBET) safeguards the 1788 farm designed and built by the poet Robert Burns on the banks of the Nith near Dumfries. The A listed steading is the best preserved of all the poet’s homes, the only one he built, and the place where he wrote a quarter of his musical output, including the international anthem to friendship, Auld Lang Syne. The farmstead sits in 140 acres comprising woodland and fields which were first enclosed by Burns himself. RBET is a membership Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation with a volunteer board of Trustees formed in 2020, although the site itself has been held in trust since 1928. It is located six miles north of Dumfries off the A76. It is an accredited museum, with seasonal opening, holding events and group visits off-season, depending on capacity. A small team of volunteers maintain the grounds and riverside walks for free public enjoyment all year.
The Robert Burns Ellisland Trust’s charitable purpose is as follows:
To hold the lands and farm of Ellisland, and such other funds and assets as may from time to time be comprised in the Trust Property, in trust for the following purposes:
(a) the advancement of education
(b) the advancement of the arts, heritage and culture
(c) the promotion of the life and works of Robert Burns
(d) to maintain a museum and collections for the benefit of the public
The Robert Burns Ellisland Trust Mission Statement is as follows:
“Ellisland is the place to fall in love with Burns. We will increase awareness of Ellisland as central to the artistic development of Robert Burns in poetry and romantic song. We will enhance understanding of the site as the best place to see the natural world through the poet’s eyes. We will create a world class visitor experience and a vibrant centre for creative learning to ensure the unique collection, buildings and landscape are accessible to a diverse range of modern audiences.”
Saving the Home of Auld Lang Syne
In September 2024, our trust secured the offer of a development stage grant of up to £489,206 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund for Saving the Home of Auld Lang Syne. In November 2024 we were awarded up to £313,000 from South of Scotland Enterprise towards the project. We expect to receive Permission to Start by January 2025. The development stage of the project is costed at £945,000 while the full cost after delivery and re-opening is £7.4m, which includes start up activity costs.
Saving the Home of Auld Lang Syne intends to bring the spirit of Burns – love, kindness and equality – into the 21st century and widen access to Ellisland with a vibrant programme of events, activities and artist residencies. We will restore the 1788 cottage, creating an immersive visitor experience, and develop a gallery/museum to display the collection, which is at risk in the deteriorating buildings. Our barn will be sensitively adapted as a Centre for Song, so future generations are inspired by Burns’s “sweet poetic ground.” We will increase visitor numbers and develop new income streams to protect the built heritage, collection and outdoor spaces, including woods, paths and fields created by Burns. This will increase economic prosperity in South Scotland and enhance wellbeing with skills training, jobs and volunteering opportunities.
A full brief can be downloaded below.
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Business Development Manager - Play Works
- Full time
- £40,426 – £44,838
- Hybrid: Broxburn
- Closing 14th January 2025
About Play Works
Play Works is a well-established and trusted charity with over 35 years of experience supporting children, families, and communities through the transformative power of play. Operating across three vibrant community hubs and five childcare venues, including West Lothian’s first outdoor nursery, Play Works provide innovative, high-quality services that make a real difference.
This work is guided by three core values—Care, Compassion, and Impact—ensuring that every child and family they support feels safe, valued, and empowered. With ambitious plans for growth, including the expansion of their outdoor nursery provision, Play Works are committed to building brighter futures and stronger, more connected communities through play.
What will you do as Business Development Manager?
Here at BTA, we have been given the fantastic opportunity of representing Play Works in their search for their new Business Development Manager. As Business Development Manager, you will play a pivotal role in driving the growth and sustainability of Play Works. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will focus on securing funding, building strategic partnerships, and optimising business practices.
Your leadership will support the implementation of the 2024-29 strategic plan, strengthening retention, delivering growth and enhancing the brand. Your work will represent the values of compassion and care, ultimately contributing to the vision that play works for all.
Key responsibilities include:
Funding & Growth – Identify and secure funding through grants, tenders, and sponsorships. Write compelling applications and manage funder relationships.
Strategic Development– Explore new opportunities for growth, including partnerships and programs, aligned with Play Works’ ambitious 2024-29 strategic plan.
Leadership – Inspire teams to deliver on priorities and help to establish a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence.
Financial Management – Work closely with the Finance Manager to forecast income and track financial goals.
Marketing & Visibility– Promote impact through engaging case studies, performance data, and digital campaigns to increase brand profile.
What does Play Works need from you?
Experience:
- Proven Business Development Experience: Demonstrated success in securing funding, sponsorships, or partnerships to support charitable initiatives. Ability to identify and pursue new business opportunities in line with the charity's goals.
- Relationship Management: Strong experience in building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders, funders, and local businesses.
- Fundraising: A track record of developing and successfully receiving funds through various income streams
- Financial Management: Experience preparing budgets, managing income pipelines, and achieving financial targets.
- Local Knowledge: Understanding of Broxburn and surrounding areas to identify opportunities for communityengagement. (Desirable)
- Experience with Play and Community Projects: Familiarity with the importance of play in community development and education. (Desirable)
Key Skills and Attributes
- Communication and Engagement: Excellent written and verbal communication skills for preparing reports, pitches, and presentations.
- Strategic Thinking and Problem-Solving: Strong ability to think strategically and solve problems with a focus on long-term organisational goals.
- Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional ability to engage with diverse groups and individuals, including funders, stakeholders, and community members.
- Financial Acumen: Strong numerical skills and an ability to monitor and achieve financial targets.
- Travel: Driving Licence with access to a vehicle. (Desirable)
What is in it for you?
You will work in a supportive environment and will be provided with a full induction and training opportunities. You will be given the chance to develop your knowledge and skills, as well as develop professionally. Some of the benefits include;
- Contributory pension with Standard Life
- Annual Leave – 32 days per year
- Employee Support – Emphasis on staff wellbeing and development, with staff support and counselling service, social events and a coaching approach
- Impact – The chance to shape the future of Play Works and improve the lives of children and families.
- Death in Service – Policy in place for 3.5 x annual salary
- Policies – Enhanced sick pay, and maternity pay. Menopause Policy
- Travel Expenses – Mileage allowance given
- Time Off in Lieu – TOIL system for any extra outside of regular working hours
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