Volunteering
If you would like to support us by giving your time to help both Leighton House and Sambourne House, we’d love to hear from you.
Tucked away in Holland Park, a leafy neighbourhood in West London, stand Leighton House and Sambourne House. The extraordinary legacies left by two ‘celebrities’ of the late Victorian era – artist Frederic, Lord Leighton (1830-1896) and illustrator Edward Linley Sambourne (1844 -1910). Both have volunteering opportunities for people looking for experience working in museums.
Volunteering is a wonderful way to learn more about the houses, artists and collections, and bring them to life for our visitors. Volunteering can also boost your wellbeing. You can meet likeminded people, recharge your creativity or treat yourself with your volunteer discount in our café or shop!
I have absolutely loved my time at Leighton and Sambourne House and want to thank you all for creating such a welcoming environment. Over the past year I have learnt so much about exhibitions, collections and art since joining the volunteer team, as well as meeting some truly lovely people.
What you can expect from us
- An induction explaining what we do and how volunteers fit within the museum, to help you meet the standards expected from volunteers.
- Training on the processes, procedures and equipment necessary to perform your role, including health and safety, safeguarding, and equality and diversity policies as appropriate.
- Briefings and information about our work.
Current roles
Visitor Assistant Volunteer
To provide a friendly welcome to visitors and contribute to the smooth running of both houses. Occasionally, there may be other opportunities to assist with events, educational workshops or leading house highlight tours.
To join our team of Visitor Assistant Volunteers, please complete the below registration form and return to [email protected]
Conservation Cleaning Volunteer
To assist the Preventative Conservation Officer with conservation cleaning of the collections.
Conservation Cleaning Volunteer
We recruit and train conservation cleaning volunteers twice a year. Applications for the summer round should be submitted by the end of June, and for the winter round by the end of November. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews prior to the next round of training.
To join our team, please complete the online Conservation Cleaning Volunteer Registration Form
FAQs
Do you need to have previously volunteered or worked at a museum, or have formal qualifications, to become a volunteer?
No, previous experience or qualifications are not necessary for any of our volunteer roles. Our induction and specific on-going training will cover everything you need to feel confident doing the role.
Is there a minimum requirement in terms of length of volunteering?
There is no minimum requirement in terms of length. Each role lists the commitment required.
When can I volunteer?
You can volunteer on any day of the week. Please note, both houses are closed on a Tuesday.
Do I need a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check to volunteer with you?
Yes, we can arrange this free of charge through the museum.