Work-based learning programmes

If you're looking to start a career in the arts or culture sector and are interested in working at the V&A, then this page is for you.

Did you know that working at a museum can give you the opportunity to develop your skills in many different areas? Job roles at the V&A can include:

  • Working with the public and local communities
  • Caring for and researching our collections and archives
  • Reaching new audiences in Marketing or Digital teams
  • Creating cutting edge exhibitions
  • Supporting our operations – working with Technology, Finance, Facilities and People teams
  • Making art and culture accessible for everyone

What opportunities do the V&A offer?

There are various ways you can get involved. If you are under 25, please see our Young People programmes for links to careers advice and more information about working in the sector.

At the V&A we also offer apprenticeships, internships and work experience opportunities, which you can find out about below.

We actively look for people of all backgrounds who can bring their unique experiences, talents and skills to the industry and beyond.

Apprenticeships at the V&A

As an apprentice at the V&A, you will have the opportunity to gain workplace skills, receive training and work towards a recognised qualification.

Our apprenticeship vacancies are not dependent on the time of year. To search current vacancies and sign up to find out about apprenticeship opportunities, please see our vacancies page.

To apply for an apprenticeship, you must be at least 16 years of age when you enrol. There is no upper age limit. Apprenticeships are open to those at the beginning of their career, and those looking for a career change.

Qualifications

You do not necessarily have to have a pre-existing qualification to apply for an apprenticeship. Each apprenticeship vacancy is offered as part of a study programme relevant to a job role. Some apprenticeship programmes also offer the opportunity to achieve role-relevant qualifications or professional body membership.

Benefits

Apprentices have access to benefits such as employee discounts in V&A shops, free entry to exhibitions with other museums and galleries, our Cycle to Work scheme and other well-being support. Apprentices who are 18 or over and live in a London borough can receive discounted travel for the first year of their apprenticeship with an Oyster photocard. Apprentices are also eligible to purchase a NUS Apprentice extra card.

Eligibility

You do not need a pre-existing qualification to apply for an apprenticeship, however, you can still apply if you have a degree already. To make sure that this is a worthwhile learning opportunity for you, you cannot have a qualification at the same level or higher in the same subject of the apprenticeship.

Equal opportunities at the V&A

We strive to ensure that opportunities to work and develop are open to all. All job applications are treated equally, regardless of age, disability, gender identity or gender expression, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.

We particularly encourage applications from those with a disability and those who identify as being from a Black, Asian and minority ethnic background, as these groups are currently under-represented in the cultural sector. At the V&A we have a good gender balance – however in certain departments, such as Technology, we welcome female applicants and, in our Exhibitions, or Development teams, we welcome male applicants.

Internships at the V&A

Work experience

From the classroom to the world of work, you can gain valuable experience at the V&A. Get involved and discover amazing career opportunities available within museums and galleries!

The V&A Work Experience Programme is a one-week placement, available for people between 16 and 19 years old.

If you would like to learn more, please email our team at talentandskills@vam.ac.uk

We're sorry that – due to high numbers of queries – not everyone who expresses an interest will receive a placement with us.

Header image: Untitled [couple on roller skates], photograph, by Al Vandenberg, from the series ‘On a Good Day’, photographed 1970s, printed 2010, London. Museum no. E.425-2010. © Victoria and Albert Museum, London