Volunteering

Volunteers are integral and valued members of the Horniman team assisting us in both visitor-facing roles and vital work behind-the-scenes.

Along with a supportive learning environment, we offer the chance to gain new skills and experience or simply to do something you enjoy.

Current vacancies

Outdoor Activity Volunteer – Nature Detectives

Closing date: 26/06/2025

Closing date: Thursday 26 June, 10pm

  • We are looking for volunteers to engage with families and children and encourage them to explore nature in the gardens through self-led activities
  • Weekly on Thursdays for 6 weeks over the summer holidays July – August.
  • 30am – 12.30 or 1.00 – 3.00pm, or the option to do both.
  • All necessary training is given – you don’t need to have any previous experience.
  • This role would suit someone who is welcoming, is passionate about nature and family engagement, and is happy being outdoors.
  • This role is open to all applicants aged 15 and over.

You must be able to attend the selection interview and induction at the following times:

  • Interview: Friday 4 July                 3.00pm – 4.00pm
  • Induction: Thursday 10 July         2.00pm – 3.30pm

Find out more in the role description below.

Please complete our online form, or email volunteering@horniman.ac.uk for an application form or if you have any questions.

We can only accept applications when volunteering roles are advertised.

Find any current roles on this page.

We take volunteers from age 15 upwards though some roles will only be available to those aged 18 and over. Where this is the case, this will be clear on the role description. There is no upper age limit.

No. Volunteer roles are different from staff roles and do not lead to paid work.

However, they do provide an opportunity to gain skills and experience.

We reimburse out-of-pocket travel expenses up to a maximum of £12 per day.

Volunteers offering a full day shift can also be reimbursed lunch expenses.

For on-going roles which are usually weekly or fortnightly, like Engage, Family Activity or Gardening, we ask for a minimum of 4-5 months if possible.

Fixed term student volunteer placements last 3 months, doing 1-3 days a week.

We are able to provide a few work experience opportunities for school students each year, depending on capacity. Find out more on our work experience webpage.

Yes, you may volunteer whilst on benefits, but you would need to let the Job Centre know about your volunteering.

The Horniman acknowledges the contribution of volunteers in supporting the organisation to achieve its aim to connect people with global cultures and the natural world, and encourage everyone to shape a positive future for the world we all share.

Read the Volunteering Policy (PDF).