THE award-winning Museum of East Dorset has a new member of staff to boost visits by schoolchildren.

Rachel Simpson-Fernandes, who boasts over a decade of experience in education, has been appointed Learning and Family Assistant at the Wimborne attraction.

“When this job was advertised I couldn’t believe my luck – teaching and museums – two of my favourite things – the perfect role for me that combines creativity and practical skills,” she said.

Rachel will be co-ordinating visits to the museum by hundreds of school children from across the UK.

Themed education workshops at the museum cover more than 2,000 years of British history, from the Stone Age to life as a Roman, and Victorian living.

Role play and activities are tailored to suit age groups and include a chance for children to experience cooking in the museum’s Victorian kitchen and life as a scullery maid in the Victorian washroom.

And Rachel said she has personal experience of the effect a visit to the museum can have.

“I remember coming to the museum when I was at school,” she said. “It’s changed so much since then. No boring questionnaires here.

“It’s wonderful to now have a part in being involved in moving the museum forward by offering even more engaging activities for schoolchildren.”

The Museum of East Dorset has the kitemark of the prestigious Sandford Award, the only nationally recognised award for heritage learning in historical settings.

And Rachel said she was keen to build on those foundations to develop the offering for young people.

“I’m looking for some wonderful new learning volunteers to join my team,” she added. “No experience is necessary as training and mentoring is provided. Every session also has a detailed delivery plan that is easy to follow.

“All we need is people with a passion for history, who love the magic of museums and how they enrich children’s lives. And if you fancy dressing up as a Victorian housekeeper or Roman soldier – even better!”

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer with the educational team at Museum of East Dorset can contact Rachel via learning@museumofeastdorset.co.uk.