Voluntary Gallery Assistant (Front of House)

Description

Voluntary Gallery Assistant (Front of House)

The Africa Centre – 60th Anniversary Exhibition

Location: The Africa Centre, London
Exhibition Dates: 26 January – April 2026
Commitment: Voluntary role | Flexible shifts available
Reporting to: Director of Programmes and Head of Finance & Operations

About The Africa Centre

The Africa Centre is one of the UK’s most respected cultural institutions, celebrating over 60 years of African presence, creativity and influence in Britain. In 2026, the Centre will present a landmark 60th Anniversary Exhibition drawing on its rich archives and exploring African history, innovation and future-facing creativity through immersive and interactive displays.

Role Overview

We are seeking enthusiastic and reliable Voluntary Gallery Assistants to provide front of house support during The Africa Centre’s 60th Anniversary Exhibition. This role is ideal for individuals interested in arts, culture, heritage, museums, or community engagement, and who enjoy welcoming and supporting diverse audiences.

As a Gallery Assistant, you will be one of the first points of contact for visitors, helping to ensure a welcoming, informative and safe experience for all.

Person Specification

Essential

• Friendly, approachable and confident communicating with the public
• Reliable, punctual and able to work independently and as part of a team
• Interest in African history, culture, arts or heritage
• Willingness to learn about the exhibition and The Africa Centre’s work

Desirable

• Experience in customer service, hospitality, museums, galleries or events (not essential)
• Interest in pursuing a career in arts, culture, heritage or community work
• Comfortable engaging with a wide range of audiences

Accessibility & Inclusion

The Africa Centre is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and will work to accommodate access needs wherever possible.

Main Duties

Key Responsibilities

• Opening & closing the exhibition space (the building itself will be open & closed by other members of the team)
• Activating digital displays
• Welcome visitors to the exhibition in a friendly, professional and inclusive manner
• Provide basic information about the exhibition, its themes, and the layout of the gallery spaces
• Support visitor flow and ensure galleries are calm, safe and enjoyable
• Monitor exhibition spaces and report any issues or concerns to staff
• Assist with audience engagement during busy periods and public events
• Support accessibility by being attentive to the needs of all visitors
• Follow health, safety and safeguarding procedures at all times

What will the volunteering role offer the student and what will they learn while they are with you?

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience in a major cultural exhibition
• Insight into gallery operations and visitor services
• Opportunities to develop communication and customer service skills
• A chance to be part of a landmark celebration of African history and creativity
• References provided upon successful completion of volunteering