Overview​

Collections in Focus is a hands-on volunteer programme at Bradford Police Museum, offering the opportunity to take part in the full process of creating museum exhibitions.

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Working as part of a small, supportive team, Volunteer Curators contribute to live projects that explore different themes within the collection. From researching objects and uncovering stories, to shaping interpretation and installing exhibitions, volunteers play an active role in bringing the museum’s history to life for the public.

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Each project follows a clear, structured framework, guiding volunteers through key stages of exhibition development. Along the way, you’ll build practical skills in research, writing, storytelling, and exhibition design, while gaining insight into how museums develop and share their collections.

 

No previous experience is required - just curiosity, enthusiasm, and an interest in history or heritage. Volunteers can join at any stage and will be supported to develop confidence and find their place within the team.​ This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience, contribute to meaningful public outputs, and be part of a growing and creative volunteer programme within the museum.

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Location

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City Hall, Bradford BD1

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Time Commitment

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Approximately 5 hours per week. This is an in-person volunteer role based at The Bradford Police Museum on Wednesdays rom 10am to 3pm. ​

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Role Description

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Bradford Police Museum is seeking volunteers to take part in Collections in Focus, a structured, year-long curatorial programme offering hands-on experience in developing museum exhibitions.

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This is an opportunity to work collaboratively as part of a small team to research, interpret, and present material from the museum’s collection, contributing to real public-facing exhibitions within our historic courtroom, gallery & cells.

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The programme is made up of three themed exhibition projects running across the year:

• Authority and Power (11th March – 1st July 2026)

• Innovation and Investigation (8th July – 28th October 2026)

• People and Community (11th November 2026 – 31st March 2027)

 

Volunteers can join at any stage of the programme.

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Each project follows a structured exhibition framework, supporting volunteers to develop skills across the full curatorial process—from research and object selection through to installation, public engagement, and evaluation.

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Key Responsibilities

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• Contribute to the research and interpretation of museum objects and archives

• Support the development of exhibition themes and narratives

• Write and edit exhibition text for a public audience

• Assist with exhibition design, layout, and installation

• Contribute to creative interpretation, including audio or digital content

• Support promotion and audience engagement activity

• Participate in team discussions, planning sessions, and project reviews

 

Person Specification

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We welcome applications from individuals with a broad range of backgrounds and experiences. No prior museum experience is required.

We are particularly interested in people who:

• Have an interest in history, heritage, or storytelling

• Enjoy working collaboratively as part of a team

• Are willing to learn new skills and take part in a structured project

• Have good communication skills (written or verbal)

• Are able to commit to regular weekly sessions where possible

 

 

How to Apply

To express your interest or ask questions, please contact: manager@bradfordpolicemuseum.com 

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Useful Links

Collections In Focus Programme Volunteer Brief PDF