Archives Assistant - 2 year Fixed Term Contract

Eton College; Clewer Village; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

Eton College seeks an Archives Assistant for a two-year fixed-term contract. The role involves assisting with cataloguing and outreach work, providing experience for those pursuing further qualifications in Archive Management. Ideal candidates will have a relevant degree and a commitment to the field.

Benefits

11% employer pension contribution

Employee Assistance Programme

Enhanced maternity/paternity scheme

Cycle to work scheme

Subsidised lunches during term time

Discounts at local retailers

Qualifications

• A genuine intention to study for a postgraduate qualification in Archive Management.
• A commitment to preserving records for posterity.
• Ability to understand a wide range of material.

Responsibilities

• Assist with cataloguing, enquiry and outreach work.
• Participate in visits to other repositories.
• Train in archive management principles.

Skills

Organisational skills

Customer service

Attention to detail

Flexibility

IT skills

Education

Good first degree in relevant subject

Tools

CollectionsIndexPlus

Job description

Archives Assistant - 2 year Fixed Term Contract

Role Introduction

Eton College was founded in 1440 but records relating to the lands with which it was endowed date back to the 11th century. The archives are mainly concerned with administrative matters until the mid-19th century when records relating to the school become increasingly dominant.

Eton College seeks to recruit an Archives Assistant to support the work of the College Archives. This is a two -year, fixed-term contract to September 2027. This role is intended to offer the necessary experience prior to undertaking a postgraduate archive training course or equivalent, but the role would also be suitable for a candidate wishing to work whilst completing their postgraduate studies via one of the distance learning courses.

Due to the needs of the school and the department, we may interview suitable candidates before the closing date. This job may also close early if a large number of applications are received. You are advised to submit your application as early as possible to avoid missing your chance to apply.

Main Duties

You will be introduced to the basic principles of archive management, including appraisal and arrangement, palaeography, basic conservation/preservation techniques, and outreach work such as exhibitions. All relevant training will be given, and the main responsibilities of the post will be to assist with cataloguing, enquiry and outreach work. The successful applicant will also participate in visits to other repositories and in events run by the ARA and the School Archives and Records Association. The main responsibilities of the post will be to assist with cataloguing, enquiry and outreach work.

Start date: 1st September 2025 or as soon thereafter subject to satisfactory recruitment checks

Closing date for applications: 15 th June at midnight

Applications received after the closing date and time will not be considered.

To be successful in this role, the incumbent should have:

• A good first degree in a relevant subject with a genuine intention to study for a postgraduate qualification in Archive Management or similar heritage sector qualification;
• A commitment to the profession;
• A genuine interest in history and in preserving records for posterity;
• A high level of commitment to customer service and making materials accessible;
• Good organisational skills to manage a wide range of tasks;
• The ability to skim and understand an extensive and varied range of material;
• Adaptability and a high degree of flexibility;
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team;
• Good IT skills and an interest in applying digital technology to archival practice;
• Attention to detail and accuracy;
• The Collections use SSL software and familiarity with CollectionsIndexPlus would be an advantage, but training will be given.

Working Pattern

• Your working hours will be35 hours per week, normally Monday to Friday, 9.00am-5.00pm with an hour unpaid for lunch. The role includes occasional evening and Saturday work, for which time off in lieu will be given.
• You will be working 52 weeks per year.
• You will be entitled to 21 days of holiday.
• This is a 2-year fixed term contract to September 2027

Eton College offers a wide range of benefits, includingan 11% employer contribution to your pension (with 4.9% employee contribution), Employee Assistance Programme, enhanced Maternity / Paternity scheme,a cycle to work scheme, subsidised lunches during term time, free or heavily discounted access to the College’s sport and leisure facilities and discounts at local retailers and businesses.

About the College

We are an equal opportunities employer and are seeking applications from suitable candidates from all backgrounds.We are dedicated to creating and sustaining an environment that values individuality and difference and celebrates the diversity of both staff and pupils by fostering perseverance, tolerance and integrity. We believe in equal opportunity for everyone, irrespective of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio-economic background.

If you have any queries about the application process or any problem with submitting your application online, the Recruitment Team will be happy to help.Should you require anyreasonable adjustmentsto be made or facilitiesprovided to enable you to apply online, please do not hesitate to contact us on [e-mail] so we can make adjustments accordingly.

DISCLOSURE CHECKS

Eton College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including, but not limited to, reference checks with past employers, an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (including Barred List information), an online searchand, where applicable, Prohibition checks.If you are successful in your application, you will be required to complete a DBS Disclosure Application Form. Any information disclosed will be handled in accordance with any guidance and/or Code of Practice published by the DBS. The College is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore all convictions, cautions, reprimands and final warnings (including those which would normally be considered as “spent” under the Act) must be declared, subject to the DBS filtering rules.It is a criminal offence for any person who is barred from working with children to attempt to apply for a position at the College.

Working Hours 35 hours per week. Includes occasional evening and Saturday work, for which time off in lieu will be given.