Classroom to Careers – Tees Valley Museums

Each term we will be shining a spotlight on a local business and one of its employees to show you what real-world careers are all about.

In this edition, we’re diving into Tees Valley Museums to learn about what they do and the different kind of jobs they offer. We got to sit down with Jenny Wilkie, the Creative Learning Support Officer, who told us all about her job and what it’s like working there.

What does a typical day at Tees Valley Museums look like?

Jenny: No two days are ever the same, and that’s what I love about my job! Our team of eight works across five local authorities—Middlesbrough, Redcar, Stockton, Hartlepool, and Darlington—making museums more accessible to everyone. Some days, I’m in schools running creative learning sessions, while other days, I’m working with teachers to integrate museum resources into history lessons. My team also takes museum objects into communities, like care homes and afterschool clubs, so people who might struggle to visit museums can still experience history up close. It’s a role that requires confidence, adaptability, and a passion for engaging with people from all walks of life.

How did you get into this type of work, Jenny?

Jenny: My journey into the museum world wasn’t exactly planned! I trained as a teacher and qualified in 2000, but I quickly realised that classroom teaching wasn’t the right fit for me. I’ve always loved the creative side of education, so I transitioned into museum work. Before joining Tees Valley Museums, I spent 18 years at the Captain Cook Museum, where I worked closely with schools. That experience helped me understand how to make history exciting and relevant for students. I’ve been in this role for 18 months now, and I absolutely love it.

What are the highlights and challenges of doing a role like yours?

Jenny: One of the biggest highlights is working on a project in partnership with the British Museum. Kirkleatham Museum are loaning historical objects from the British Museum in London. The British Museum Curators will be taking an object into two primary schools in Redcar where the children will create their own classroom museum around this star object. It’s amazing to see children interact with these artefacts and even create their own mini-museums around them. The biggest challenge? Working across five different local authorities. Each has its own structure and ways of working, so communication and coordination are key. It’s all about finding ways to support each team effectively.

How can others get into this type of work and industry?

Jenny: This wasn’t the field of work I’d planned to get into. Many people however do choose this pathway if they’re interested in history and education. My advice? Get hands-on experience in smaller museums first. Working in a small venue means you get to wear lots of different hats, which helps you figure out what aspects of museum work you enjoy the most. Museums have changed. They’re no longer places with dusty display cases and boring labels. Museums are vibrant and welcoming places which can inspire people of all ages and backgrounds. The industry needs people who are innovative, curious, and eager to make history accessible to all.

Where can people find more information about the work of Tees Valley Museums and vacancies within the organisation?

Jenny: We have a website where you can learn more about our programmes and projects. Job vacancies are advertised on Jobs North East, as well as through the local council jobs pages. We also run training opportunities through the Young Producers programme, which is a great way to gain experience and break into the industry for people aged 16-25.