The development of a diverse museum workforce is being held back by a dependence on volunteering, according to research by Creative and Cultural Skills (CCS).
The sector skills council said low wages combined with expectations of high qualifications meant many people could not afford to start a career in museums, especially as they might have to spend a period volunteering before gaining paid work.
The CCS, which has just launched an apprenticeship programme for the cultural industries, undertook the research to inform its work.
Other key findings included an over-supply of museum studies graduates, a lack of career progression from entry-level jobs and not enough courses providing the appropriate practical experience.
Simon Stephens
The sector skills council said low wages combined with expectations of high qualifications meant many people could not afford to start a career in museums, especially as they might have to spend a period volunteering before gaining paid work.
The CCS, which has just launched an apprenticeship programme for the cultural industries, undertook the research to inform its work.
Other key findings included an over-supply of museum studies graduates, a lack of career progression from entry-level jobs and not enough courses providing the appropriate practical experience.
Simon Stephens
