Junior Docents Program

Each summer, the Museums of Old York recruits students to volunteer in the education and curatorial departments as Junior Docents. This volunteer project is designed to enhance the museum experience not only for visitors but also for Junior Docents. Students receive extensive training appropriate to the position. They act as the museums' ambassadors to both the community and visitors.

Junior Interpreters Junior Educators Junior Curators

Positions:

Junior Docents will be asked to choose among the following positions:

Junior Interpreters (Ages 12-18):

  • Give guided tours of the Emerson-Wilcox House or the Ramsdell House with an adult staff member.

  • Demonstrate colonial crafts in period costumes at Jefferds' Tavern and the Old Gaol.

  • Participate in weekly hearth cooking demonstrations.

Junior Educators (Ages 13-18):

  • Help the education staff with the development, preparation and presentation of children's summer programs ("Morning Adventures" and two week-long camps).

Junior Curators (Ages 14-18):

  • Conceptualize, research and select items for a museum quality exhibit.

  • Work as a team to install your exhibition at the York Public Library.

  • Click here to view then online exhibit of Folk Art, presented by the 2007 Junior Curators.

Eligibility and Requirements:

  • Between the ages of 12 and 18 by April 1, 2009

  • Recommended by an adult, other than a relative.

  • Mature, reliable, and enthusiastic about history.

  • Available for all training sessions and for volunteer work starting June 6, 2009 and continuing through the summer.

  • Interested in gaining communication skills, acquiring museum knowledge and interacting with history.

  • Parents must have a Family Membership to the Museums of Old York and pay a yearly fee of $150 to cover supplies, supervision and costumes.

Selection Procedure:

Applications are due by May 1, 2009. All qualified students will be interviewed by the education staff to determine suitability for the position.

Training:

Students must attend all training sessions presented by the education staff. If students have a conflict with the training schedule, they must make arrangements to reschedule with the education director. These sessions will present general information on the museum and specific training on techniques for each field.

Training dates for 2008:

May

Individual Interviews and Selection of Position

May 28

General Orientation and Training

June 4

Training for Opening Day

June 11

Ongoing Training

June 18

Ongoing Training

June 25

Ongoing Training

Training times are from 3:00 p.m. ~ 5:00 p.m and will take place at the Remick Barn unless otherwise stated.

Work Schedules and Responsibilities:

  • Junior Docents will begin working at the museum on Opening Day (June 6, 2009). In July and August, they can work any day, Tuesdays through Fridays, depending on the activity they have chosen.

  • A serious time commitment of at least three hours per week during the July and August schedule is expected.

  • Time off will be given for family vacations or camp. Please give advance notice to the Education Director.

  • Since the Junior Docents represent the public face of Old York, they will be expected to wear professional clothing at all times.

  • Junior Docents who are performing or demonstrating a colonial craft will be given a costume for the season.

  • During the fall, winter and spring, Junior Docents will be encouraged to volunteer at special events and programs.

Rewards:

  • Earn community service hours.

  • Receive a Junior Docent card, which will give them free admission to the Museums of Old York and a discount of 20 percent in the Museum Shop.

  • Rreceive training and volunteer job experience.

Click here to download a copy of the Junior Docents Program Application

For more information:
Please contact Zoe Keefer-Norris at (207) 363 4974 x12 or email education@oldyork.org.