Press Releases
Fancy working in a coalmine? Come and join us in telling the story of coal.
Date:
2020-03-04Big Pit’s Mining Craft Apprenticeship Scheme goes from strength to strength, and now in its third year, another three new Mining Craft Apprenticeship opportunities are currently being advertised.Visitors to the National Coal Museum in Blaenavon comment positively on the knowledge of the Miner Guides who bring the experience of working underground to life. Many have first-hand experience and the Museum is looking to pass this knowledge on to its newest recruits.
The scheme was first introduced in 2017, and has succeeded in placing seven Mining Craft Apprentices and two Engineering Apprentices aimed at providing the next generation of staff at the world-famous mining museum.
The apprenticeships are part of Big Pit’s succession plan to help ensure that visitors can continue to enjoy and learn about the history of mining in Wales. The scheme is also part of Amgueddfa Cymru’s ongoing commitment to improving the traditional skills base in Wales and has received a proportion of funding support from the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority Sustainable Development Fund.
The nine apprentices to date, which include 4 former miners’ sons and the first ever female mining apprentice, have either a personal connection with or a deep interest in the mining industry.
Ben Monroe and Dai Powell where the first Mining Craft Apprentices to be taken on, and are now qualified underground guides, part of the Mines Rescue Service and are currently studying to complete their NVQ Level 4 Supervisor course.
Ben said, “I recognised this as a very unique opportunity and an excellent chance to improve my skillset and learn about an industry no longer widely practiced.”
Dai added, “The combination of gaining skills and knowledge, in a relaxed and enjoyable environment is a great place to be every day!”
Lee Thomas and Emma Long also joined as apprentices in 2017. Lee’s Father, Peter, worked in Deep Navigation and Penallta Collieries and Emma become the first and only female, Miner Guide to date.
Lee said, “The people I work with at Big Pit are amazing, always happy to pass on their knowledge and help me further my own understanding”
Emma noted, “I was encouraged to apply for the apprenticeship scheme by my friends, and will be eternally grateful to them. Apprentices are vital in keeping alive the wonderful experience we provide our visitors at Big Pit”.
For more information, job description and application form, visit the Jobs page at www.museumwales.ac.uk.
Closing date for applications is 15 March 2020.