Work Experience Placements

Posted on 2 March 2016

The Borthwick Institute for Archives has an opportunity for University of York students interested in buildings history to work in a stimulating and fast-paced environment.

We are looking for a group of 6 students to join us for a week to experience what it's like to work in archives. You will work closely with original records from the Pace and Sims Architectural Archive and will perform a range of tasks including:

sorting documents in preparation for detailed listing;
basic listing work;
outreach work.

You will work through the rolled drawings of George Pace and Ronald Sims, identifying buildings, dating drawings, describing drawing types and physical formats, and noting any annotations or signatures. You will then create archival descriptions, which will form the basis of an electronic catalogue. You will also get the chance to engage in outreach work through writing a group blog about your work experience project.

You don't need any previous knowledge or experience of working in archives, but you will need:

an interest in archives and the range of work the Borthwick undertakes, with the intention of exploring a career in archives;
the ability to work both independently and as part of a team;
a conscientious, meticulous approach to work, with strong attention to detail.

Applicants should ensure they are available on Monday 4 – Friday 8 April. The working day is 10:30-17:30.

Although the placement is unpaid, you will receive appropriate guidance, mentoring and advice on how best to pursue a career in archives further, should you so wish. You will receive a basic induction into the main issues affecting archives and the skills you will need to pursue a career further.

So, if you are interested in finding out whether archive work might be the career for you, we are looking forward to hearing from you.

How to apply

Please send a CV and covering letter addressed to Dr Amanda Jones at the Borthwick Institute email address

Closing date for applications is Wednesday 16th March 2016.

Successful candidates will be contacted on or shortly after 23 March 2016.