My time at Newton Abbot Museum
- by charlottee
- in Museum
- posted July 23, 2025
Hello my name is Cora, from Coombeshead Academy, and I completed my work experience at Newton Abbot Museum.
When I first secured my work experience placement at the museum, I had already premeditated what I thought my tasks at the museum would be and how the museum worked behind the scene from day- to- day. When ringing the doorbell on my first day I soon realised the work undergone in a museum is severely overlooked and in fact a lot more complex than the public eye may presume.
I started off by learning where the fire exits were, and along with that general health and safety points to abide to for the duration of my week. It was only when I was exposed to a variety of different computer platforms, especially data logging apps and spreadsheets, that I realised how much passionate work must go into a job such as one here in the museum.
Although slightly tricky to get the hang of at first, I soon found that once you get into the process of scrolling though a mega sized grid it’s actually rather exciting to have your eye caught on a photograph from our town long before even our grandparents were born. Even when sidetracked off topic, there were hundreds of interesting artifacts that I found catching my attention and even surprising me at times.
Furthermore, I also loved doing object handling with a variety of types of objects from differing time periods. I started off with basic training where I was taught how to safely and responsibly handle museum objects such as an early 20th century hot water bottle, a map and a baby dress. After showing I could handle these, I then was given the opportunity to choose my own box of items that I would like to take a look at. I was drawn to the childhood toys box and was intrigued in the many different games, toy vehicles and activities such as sewing and knitting practices within the collection.
Not only have the activities been great but the staff and volunteers have been so lovely and supportive too. They are constantly checking up on you and are so supportive, ensuring I felt comfortable at all times.
Now my work experience week has come to an end, I’m glad to disclose that I’m leaving this wonderful museum with ample new skills learnt, an abundance of unique local facts and a confidence boost.
