Library, Information and Archive Services Assistant Apprentice Level 3

This is a 24‑month apprenticeship programme, offering a unique opportunity to earn while you learn, gaining valuable skills and a nationally recognised qualification. You will develop practical experience in archives and information services, alongside customer service and organisational skills, supporting your future career in the heritage, archive or library sector.
As part of the team at Bristol Archives, you will provide a welcoming and professional service to visitors using the archives searchroom and support the day-to-day running of archive services.

You will:

Support visitors in accessing archive collections and resources Learn how to safely handle, store and preserve important historical documents Assist in organising and maintaining archive records and collections Help create and share information about the archives to improve access and engagement Work with colleagues across the service and occasionally visit other local authority archives as part of your learning

This role offers a hands-on learning experience where you’ll build confidence working with both people and historical materials, contributing to making heritage accessible to all.

Training:

You will undertake a combination of on-the-job training and off-the-job learning as part of the Level 3 Library, Information and Archives Services Assistant apprenticeship.

Where training will take place:

The majority of training will take place in the workplace at: Bristol Archives, Bond Warehouse, Smeaton Road, Bristol, BS1 6XN.

You will also complete structured learning delivered by the training provider (LMP), which will be undertaken online (remote delivery).

There may be occasional opportunities to visit other local authority archive services in the South West as part of the learning programme.

How often training will be:

You will work 30 hours per week, which includes:

24 hours of on-the-job learning within the Archives service 6 hours per week (off-the-job training) dedicated to formal study and training provider-led sessions

Off-the-job training will typically be delivered through a combination of:

Weekly online learning sessions Independent study Tutor support and progress reviews

Additional training support:

You will be supported in the workplace by experienced Archivists and their line manager A structured training plan will be agreed at the start of the programme, including regular progress reviews with the training provider You will build a portfolio of evidence throughout the programme to demonstrate their knowledge, skills and behaviours 

Training Outcome:

On successful completion of the apprenticeship, there may be opportunities to progress into roles such as Archives Assistant, Library Assistant or other entry-level positions within archives, heritage, museums or information services. The skills and experience gained will also provide a strong foundation for further study or progression to higher-level apprenticeships within the sector, supporting a long-term career in archives and heritage.

Employer Description:

Bristol City Council is committed to equality and diversity, as both a provider of services to the community and to our employees. Our practices and procedures aim to reflect the varied needs, expectations and culture of all members of our community and our workforce. Please note that if you were to be invited to interview, you will be asked a question on equal opportunities.

Working Hours :
Part-time, 30 hours per week (24 hours on-site at Bristol Archives and 6 hours off-the-job learning), with on-site working Tuesdays to Thursdays in our public searchroom and archives.

Skills:
Communication skills,IT skills,Attention to detail,Organisation skills,Customer care skills,Team working