Banner Returns
SMC Grants
ICT Category Grants
National ICT Strategy
Registration
SMC Staff
Design Quality Indicators for Museum and Gallery Buildings - Update
The Light Meter Mystery
SMC Advice Policy
Access to Collections: Security Implications
NMS Vision, Values and Strategy
New Focus on Science Education for Royal Observatory Edinburgh Visitor Centre
The Scottish Museum of the Year Award
Volunteering Awards
Treasure Trove
Roots and Wings – Celebrating Children’s Exploration of their Heritage
Vacancy for a New Board Member?
The Big Draw 2003
Scottish Career Profiles Website
Make a Difference Day
Publications
Courses and Conferences
August 1, 2003
A rare and nationally important painted silk banner which was raised against the Jacobites in 1715 and which has been in Australia for the past 90 years has been repatriated, conserved by the SMC Conservation Service in Edinburgh and unveiled in its new home, The Stewartry Museum in Kirkcudbright. Dumfries & Galloway Council Museums Curator David Devereux coordinated the project, which was largely funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Alex Fergusson, MSP for Galloway and Upper Nithsdale, unveiled the banner, donated to the museum by its owner Sir Robert Gordon.
Joseph Robison, Honorary Curator of The Stewartry Museum in the early 20th century believed that the Gordons had used the banner during the Covenanting troubles of the 1670s and 1680s although a panel with the date 1715 appears in the top left corner of the banner. Robison assumed this was probably added later, when Sir Thomas Gordon raised his followers to defend Dumfries against the threat of the ‘Old Pretender’ and Jacobite forces.
During the conservation work, by SMC Conservation Officer Tuula Pardoe, it became apparent that the banner’s painted inscriptions were all executed contemporaneously, indicating that 1715 was in fact the year it was made.
Sometime between 1913 and 1920, the banner was sent to Australia, after a branch of the Gordon family who had emigrated there in 1850 inherited the Baronetcy of Earlston and Afton.
Since 1920, the Earlston Banner, as it is known, became a treasured exhibit in the Hall of Remembrance in the Scots Church in Sydney. When the church, located in Sydney’s central business district, was scheduled for demolition in 2001, Sir Robert Gordon and the church authorities were anxious to find it a new home. They contacted The Stewartry Museum and, following the award of an HLF grant under the ‘Your Heritage’ scheme, the project to transport, conserve and finally display the banner in the museum was successfully undertaken.
August 1, 2003
The closing date for the next round of SMC grant applications is 30 September.
For information about grants criteria or application forms, see the SMC website www.scottishmuseums.org.uk or contact SMC Grants Officer Beverley Davies. Tel 0131 476 8471. E-mail [email protected]
August 1, 2003
As the grant deadline of 30 September is approaching, SMC ICT Adviser Dylan Edgar is encouraging applications for the ICT category that address hardware or software shortfalls. Funds in the region of £20,000 will be available for ICT grants, and we are happy to consider small and large projects. Possible applications might include:
If you are considering making a grant application in the ICT category and would like guidance, feel free to contact Dylan. Tel 0131 476 8457. E-mail [email protected]
August 1, 2003
Building on the ICT Strategy for Scotland’s Museums drafted in 2000, we are developing an updated version which will be rolled out in the Spring. This recognises that ICT is a dynamic and rapidly evolving area which requires us to revisit the issues that are facing museums and develop innovative solutions. A project plan is in place and the development of the strategy will involve extensive stakeholder consultation. A draft will be available in the New Year, and we will be asking members to participate in an ongoing programme of national endorsement.
The project will be managed by SMC ICT Adviser Dylan Edgar. He will provide updates on the development of the emerging strategy through Tak tent and via the ICT section on the SMC website.
August 1, 2003
Development of the new Registration scheme
As reported in July’s Tak tent, our response to Resource’s draft Registration scheme consultation made a series of recommendations that we believe are vital if the Registration scheme is to achieve its potential. We are still very interested to hear what you think about our response to the consultation and to receive copies of responses you sent to Resource. The scheme is still under development and we are continuing to contribute ideas and comments to Resource. The more we know about your views the better we can do this. The following analysis of comments we have received at SMC so far will give you an idea of what other people have been saying.
Areas of consensus from Scottish museums
In answer to our request for your views, we received copies of responses to Resource’s draft Registration scheme consultation from eight organisations and also heard from four members commenting on SMC’s response. Although each of the member responses had its own emphasis according to the priorities of the organisation involved, we were interested to see major areas of consensus emerging. These are highlighted below under five of the headings from SMC’s response.
Minimum standard scheme?
Four respondents wrote of a general concern that the level required for Registration would be too high for many museums. Six specifically mentioned the level required for documentation being too high, four mentioned the collections care level being too high. There were many other comments about specific areas of the scheme that may prove difficult for certain types of museum, including public signage, emergency planning, staffing, security, access and learning.
Beyond the minimum standard
In agreement with SMC, four respondents identified the need for the scheme to measure attainment of levels of achievement.
One size fits all?
Four respondents wrote in support of a flexible modular scheme that would enable small museums to meet the raised standards over time and would be better suited to the current funding climate.
Continuous improvement
Along with SMC, a couple of respondents welcomed the use of forward plans to preclude the need for re-applying for Registration but one respondent shared SMC’s concerns about how the forward plans would be measured when there appeared to be no published mechanism for assessing plans against a timetable or fixed criteria.
Presentation and administration
SMC delivers the scheme in Scotland on behalf of Resource and we have argued in our response for a variety of improvements to increase the efficiency and transparency of the scheme. Five respondents also called for a combination of improvements to improve efficiency including better presentation of the scheme, clarity of criteria, simplicity and consistency of language, and better monitoring of the system to avoid inefficiencies and delays, the use of ICT to reduce bureaucracy, paperwork and the re-submission of the same information each time a museum is assessed. Four respondents also specifically mentioned the need for funds to be available for development of museums to meet the level required and for SMC to deliver the scheme.
Do you think have we missed anything out?
Please contact SMC Registration Manager Susie Hillhouse (tel 0131 476 8467, e-mail [email protected]) with a copy of your response to Resource’s consultation or with any comments you may have about the draft scheme or SMC’s response to the draft scheme.
You can see our response to Resource’s draft Registration consultation on the website at http://www.scottishmuseums.org.uk/pdfs/Cons_resp/Registration_response.pdf
Annual Registration Returns
We are still receiving a steady trickle of ARR forms. For those who have not yet completed them, please note that the deadline for returns to be at SMC is 29 August 2003.
August 1, 2003
After two and a half years at SMC as Registration Officer, Crawford McGugan has moved on to become Network Co-ordinator at the Caledonian Heritage Futures Network. CHFN, based at Caledonian University in Glasgow, is an innovative new research partnership bringing together historians with experts in tourism and heritage management. CHFN aims to develop close working relationships with researchers, policy makers, stakeholders and, importantly, community groups. (Information about the network is available from the University’s School of Law and Social Sciences. Web www.lss.gcal.ac.uk) We wish Crawford well in his new post.
August 1, 2003
SMC is working with the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland to develop specific DQIs for the museum sector. Thanks to all who responded to our request for volunteers for both the Advisory Group and offering case studies for us to test the DQIs with, the project is progressing, with the Advisory Group members confirmed and potential case studies identified.
The DQI Advisory Group
The response to an open invitation to join the Group was overwhelming, so much so that we could not take up all of the excellent offers received. We are extremely grateful to all those who have agreed to be part of the Group:
Sandy Blair, Project Officer (Capital Projects), Scottish Arts Council
May Cassar, Director, Centre for Sustainable Heritage, University College London
Molly Duckett, SMC Board member and Grantown Museum Manager and Curator
Richard Emerson, Chief Inspector of Listed Buildings, Historic Scotland
Liz Kwasnik, Museums and Galleries Officer, South Ayrshire Council
Colin McLean, Manager for Scotland, Heritage Lottery Fund
Susie Rutherford, Policy & Training Director, Vision Sense
Ewen Smith, Deputy Director (Operations), Hunterian Museum (University of Glasgow)
Peter Winsor, Collections Development Manager, Resource.
In the early stages of the project, we expect the Group to provide RIAS Consultancy with expert advice and opinion on what will be required to ensure that the project is useful and usable for all potential stakeholders. Later in the project, the Group will assist with the analysis and interpretation of case study results.
The Case Studies
The response we received to our request for case studies to test the developing DQIs was also very good and at the time of writing we do not yet know which ones we will be using. The projects include a new build museum and archive; a new-build collections management site; a major refurbishment of a Listed museum building and a smaller-scale refurbishment and extension project. Each case has its own merits in terms of this project, so the final decision on which to choose will be very hard.
For information about the project and what it will mean for museums in Scotland, see the SMC website www.scottishmuseums.org.uk or contact Emma Hook. Tel 0131 476 8458. E-mail [email protected]
August 1, 2003
Thank you to everyone for returning monitoring equipment, as requested in the May issue of Tak tent. However, someone has been over-generous and returned a light meter that doesn’t belong to SMC! There does not appear to have been any paperwork with the meter, so please, if you sent a Solex SL100 electronic lux meter to Emma Hook last month, please contact her. If no one claims the meter, it will be added to equipment that will be transferred to the Curatorial Advisers, so it will continue to have a useful life. You can contact Emma by phone on 0131 476 8458 or e-mail [email protected]
August 1, 2003
With Tak tent this month, we enclose our Policy on advice to members. This will help members to know what to expect from our advisory staff and explains our approach to providing advice. The policy will also be published on our website and additional copies are available from the SMC Office. Tel 0131 229 7465.
August 1, 2003
Many museums are trying to improve access to collections and find in the process that this presents associated security risks.
SMC has therefore commissioned the Scottish Association of Museums Security to produce written guidance to help museums to address this risk.
As part of this project, SAMS wishes to consult with museum staff to explore any projects they have undertaken to increase access to their collections. As well as the tried and tested methods already in use, such as opening existing storage facilities to guided tours and holding temporary public exhibitions of normally stored items, SAMS is particularly interested to hear about any distinctive approaches your institution may be developing to extend access to your collections. SAMS wants to identify case studies for good security practice so please come forward if you are considering, or are already increasing access to collections.
Security issues are, by their nature, something you will want to keep discreet and any information you provide will be handled with discretion. It might be the case that, on the basis of your reply SAMS would like to promote your security procedure as an example of ‘good practice’. If so, SAMS will check all aspects of how your work is described and published before any information appears in print.
If you have examples of work that you would like to discuss with SAMS, please contact SAMS Chairman Mike Arnott. Tel 01382 432084. E-mail [email protected]
August 1, 2003
Over the past year, in consultation with staff, stakeholders and the cultural and educational sectors, the National Museums of Scotland has created a new vision, values and strategy. NMS’s vision for the future - “A world class museums service that informs, educates and inspires” - aims to ensure that the collections in NMS’s care can contribute fully to learning and quality of life for the people of Scotland, visitors to Scotland and others around the world.
The new vision was launched on 3 July, at an event attended by Frank McAveety MSP, Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport. Welcoming the initiative, the Minister said that NMS had set out clear and exciting plans for the future, which would ensure increased accessibility and understanding of Scotland’s heritage and the national collections, both here and abroad. He also welcomed the fact that NMS’s plans would clearly contribute to the national agendas for inclusion, learning and excellence.
Among its priorities, NMS has made a commitment to build on the work which it already undertakes with the non-national museum sector in Scotland. NMS sees partnerships as key to building capacity for the sector, within the new strategic framework that the Scottish Executive is developing. NMS has
proposed that the framework should include a more clearly defined national role for itself to provide advice, share expertise, and to enhance existing services such as its loans programme. NMS plans to consult with the museums sector later this year to help identify priorities for development.
A summary of NMS’s vision and priorities, together with the full Corporate Plan 2003-2007, can be found on the website www.nms.ac.uk
August 1, 2003
The Royal Observatory (Edinburgh) Trust, in partnership with Moray House School of Education, Our Dynamic Earth’s Education Service and the Scottish Earth Science Education Forum, has secured a £300,000 contract from the Scottish Executive to provide Continuing Professional Development training for science teachers in Scotland.
The partnership will develop teaching materials which support the Earth and Space elements of the 5-14 science curriculum. It will then train selected teachers to share these materials, and best practice in science education, with colleagues in their local area.
The project is at the heart of the Observatory’s re-launch of its education and outreach work. This re-focussing will enable the Centre to provide a high quality package to schools which will include teacher training, a visit to the school by observatory staff, and a trip for pupils to the Centre. The Centre will have dedicated education staff to ensure that activities continue to support the curriculum.
Although the Centre will no longer be open to casual visitors from the end of August, it will continue to expand and improve its activities for the general public. Children in particular will benefit from the enhanced educational experience offered by the Observatory through group visits to the Centre. Outreach activities will be increased with the Starlab Planetarium and astronomy demonstrations regularly appearing in public places such as shopping centres and visitor attractions. The Observatory will continue to run its popular Winter Programme of public observing and lectures and provide free access to the whole site during annual Open Days.
For further information, contact ROE Visitor Centre Manager Dan Hillier, Royal Observatory Edinburgh, Blackford Hill, Edinburgh EH9 3HJ. Tel 0131 668 8406. E-mail [email protected]
August 1, 2003
The SMOYA Trustees would like to thank all of the museum representatives who took part in their evaluation of the purpose and objectives of the awards scheme. Over 70 helpful responses were received and are now being analysed. The awards have been running for over 27 years and these responses will ensure that the scheme reflects the present and future interests and needs of the museum sector in Scotland. Once the evaluation is completed, the Trustees will inform museums and galleries of the outcome through Tak tent.
August 1, 2003
Volunteer Development Scotland has launched Partners in Volunteering Awards, sponsored by IBM and supported by Scottish Business in the Community, to recognise and reward the best examples of volunteering partnerships between business and communities in Scotland. Nominations are invited in 4 categories:
Best Ongoing Partnership
Best Newcomer
Best Small Business
Best Broker.
Nominations should be submitted by 26 September. For details, contact Donald MacQueen, Volunteer Development Scotland, Stirling Enterprise Park, Stirling FK7 7RP. Tel 01786 479593. E-mail [email protected] Web www.vds.org.uk
August 1, 2003
Delivery and uplift of Treasure Trove objects
Would museums please notify the Secretariat at least 48 hours in advance of the delivery or uplift of objects for TT assessment to ensure that a member of staff is available. Please also ensure that appropriate paperwork, including a completed declaration form by the finder, is included with all new objects for TT assessment. Forms are downloadable from the website or available on request from the Secretariat.
Treasure Trove Advisory Panel
The next meeting of the Panel is scheduled for
9 October 2003. The deadline for bids for cases coming before the Panel at this meeting is
18 September 2003.
Museums intending to bid for cases coming before the Treasure Trove Advisory Panel are advised to refer to the booklet Treasure Trove in Scotland: Criteria for Allocation and the Allocation Process, issued by the Scottish Executive in August 1999. Copies are available from the Secretariat on request or from the Treasure Trove website. Standard forms for submitting bids are also now downloadable from the ‘Museums Information’ page.
The following cases have been claimed by the Crown and bids and requests for information are invited.
TT.38/03 Viking iron axehead, Finart Bay, Argyll & Bute.
TT.39/03 16th century signet ring, Falkirk.
TT.40/03 Medieval silver brooch, Eddleston, Scottish Borders.
TT.41/03 18th century miniature lead clock face, Kelso, Scottish Borders.
TT.42/03 Early Historic ring-headed pin, Stranraer, Dumfries & Galloway.
TT.43/03 BA copper alloy ingot, Tore, Ross & Cromarty, Highland.
TT.44/03 Early Historic penannular brooch inset, Benbecula, Western Isles.
TT.45/03 Penannular brooch pin, Conon Bridge, Ross & Cromarty.
TT.46/03 Two medieval architectural fragments, Kirkhope Law, Scottish Borders.
TT.47/03 Two 18th century political and militia buttons, Redcastle, Ross & Cromarty.
TT.48/03 16th century pottery jug, unprovenanced (possibly Aberdeenshire).
TT.49/03 Medieval/later inscribed bookplate, Ayton, Scottish Borders.
TT.50/03 Ogham inscribed stone, Selkirk, Scottish Borders.
TT.51/03 BA stone axe-hammer, Port Charlotte, Islay, Argyll & Bute.
TT.52/03 Iron Age copper alloy fastener, Kirriemuir, Angus.
TT.53/03 18th century stone sundial, Arbroath, Angus.
TT.54/03 Romano-British loop fastener, Bridge of Allen, Stirling.
TT.55/03 MBA palstave, St Andrews, Fife.
TT.56/03 Prehistoric lithic assemblage, Biggar, S Lanarkshire.
TT.57/03 Norse gaming board fragment, Birsay, Orkney.
TT.58/03 Two Roman coins and three objects, Strageath, Perth & Kinross.
TT.59/03 Four Roman coins, Strageath, Perth & Kinross.
TT.60/03 Two EBA axeheads, Dunblane, Stirling.
TT.61/03 One EBA axehead and one decorated EBA axehead, Dunblane, Stirling.
Contact Jenny Shiels, Treasure Trove Administrator, National Museums of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh EH1 1JF. Tel 0131 247 4082. Fax 0131 247 4060. E-mail [email protected] Web www.treasuretrove.org.uk
August 1, 2003
Roots and Wings is a new scheme from Curiosity & Imagination, the national network for hands-on learning, and aims to celebrate and share inspiring practice in engaging children with heritage of all kinds. The scheme is funded by the Carnegie United Kingdom Trust.
Organisations and individuals are invited to submit evidence which captures the essential flavour of their heritage learning provision. Child and adult panels will select up to 10 examples which they feel are the most exciting and innovative. This provision will then be celebrated and publicised through an exhibition and workshops around the country.
This scheme is a way of alerting policy makers, funders, practitioners and the media to your work. The submission process is designed to be as simple and time-efficient as possible, and selected provision will then receive extensive publicity, as well as a certificate and a logo which you can use on your own materials. Even if your provision is not selected, you will receive useful comments from the panels.
The scheme will run initially for 2 years.
August 2003, submissions invited for year 1
16 April 2004, deadline for submissions
May 2004, celebration – submissions invited for year 2.
For details of eligibility and how to submit an application, contact Curiosity & Imagination, Kids’ Clubs Network, Bellerive House, 3 Muirfield Crescent, London E14 9SZ. Tel 020 7522 6919. E-mail [email protected]
August 1, 2003
Examples of Arts & Business in the Highlands helping heritage boards to find the right people for the job:
The small East Sutherland village of Helmsdale is the home of Timespan Heritage Centre and Gallery. The museum’s collection of archaeological, domestic and agricultural objects is complemented by re-created scenes that provide direct access to what life must have been like centuries ago. With a fine gallery space, herb garden and café, in an idyllic setting beside the River Helmsdale, Timespan truly reaches out to all the senses and brings an appreciation of North Highland life to all its visitors. The organisation is also in the early stages of a substantial development programme.
At the end of December 2002, Victoria Reeves, Chair of Helmsdale Heritage Society which runs the Centre, approached Arts & Business for assistance. Two individuals were recruited through the Arts & Business Board Bank and introduced to Timespan - Jacolyn Warner from the Strathnaver Company in Kinbrace, Sutherland, and Alison MacDonald, Human Resource Manager with Aquascot Ltd in Alness. Both are making a tremendous contribution to Timespan.
Groam House Museum in Rosemarkie, open for over 23 years, fitted the bill perfectly for another Board Bank recruit. Barbara Cohen, Chief Executive of Method Publishing in Golspie, had been involved with Arts & Business for a number of months as a business adviser with one of the local museums. But she was looking for even “more of a challenge”, and the chance to indulge in one of her major interests, Picts and Vikings, and amongst Groam House's stunning archaeological collection is a unique display of Pictish stones, with some dating back as far as the 8th century. The Groam House trustees are delighted with the board bank placement.
Arts & Business could help bring business expertise to your museum by introducing you to a management adviser or a potential new board member. They can also help with governance training for board members and senior staff on working with their board.
For more information, contact Susan Chisholm in Inverness, telephone 01463 720886, or Cathy Hirschmann in Edinburgh, telephone 0131 220 2499.
August 1, 2003
A reminder that the annual Big Draw which attracts thousands of people to hundreds of venues runs from 15 to 22 October. It will include events on a wide range of themes:
Space and Place: engaging people in 3D design and environmental planning
Uncharted Territories: using drawing to plan and record experiences and activities, create family trees, or explain how something works
Drawn from Memory: recording memories.
Contact Drawing Power, 7 Gentleman’s Row, Enfield EN2 6PT. Tel 020 8351 1719. Web www.drawingpower.org.uk
August 1, 2003
CHNTO (the former National Training Organisation for museums, galleries and heritage) has announced a new website area devoted to Scottish cultural heritage careers - see www.chnto.co.uk/careers/ScottishCareers
Eight Scottish cultural heritage profiles are covered in depth:
Assistant Curator
Culture and Leisure Support Services Manager
Dendrochronologist
Freelance Museum Consultant
Keeper of Geology and Zoology
Museum Curator
Museum Director
National Museum Head of Corporate Policy.
The profiles have been designed to help anyone considering a career in the cultural heritage sector to find out more ‘straight from the horse’s mouth’. Each profile covers the individual’s career history, examines the skills and knowledge needed for the role and there are tips and advice for those who aspire to a similar position. To complement the profiles, there is information on heritage courses run by Scottish Higher Education providers along with links to other useful heritage career websites. CHNTO encourages people currently working in the sector to visit the site and add their own career profiles by e-mailing [email protected]
For further details, contact Amanda Szekely, Cultural Heritage NTO, 7 Burnett Street, Little Germany, Bradford BD1 5BJ. Tel 01274 391087. E-mail [email protected]
August 1, 2003
MADD, supported by Barclays, is the biggest day of volunteering in the UK. On 25 October, over 75,000 people will donate their time. It is a great way to attract new volunteers; gain publicity; build new partnerships; or kick-start a project. You can register activities online at http://www.mediabridge.org.uk/~csv/madd/maddRegistration/register.html or by phone on the freephone number 0800 284 533.
August 1, 2003
The Disability Portfolio
Resource
This is a collection of 12 guides on how best to meet the needs of disabled people as users and staff in museums, archives and libraries. It gives advice, information and guidance to help overcome barriers and follow good practice.
Available now:
1. Disability in Context
2. Meeting Disabled People
3. Training for Equality
4. Audit
Available Autumn 2003:
5. Disability Discrimination Act
6. Inclusive Information
7. Using Technology
8. Access on a Shoestring
Available end 2003:
9. Accessible Environments
10. Outreach and Partnerships
11. Consulting Disabled People
12. Employment at Every Level
The Portfolio is available free for museums, archives and libraries and disabled people working in the sector. The cost is £25 for other organisations and individuals.
Contact Sahar Vagan at Resource. Tel 020 7273 1445. E-mail [email protected]
The Government Indemnity Scheme
Resource
The GIS is a non-commercial insurance programme providing cost-free indemnity cover against loss or damage to works of art and objects on loan to non-national museums, galleries and libraries. This publication outlines what objects are eligible for indemnity cover, how the scheme works, and how to make an application. Available online on the website www.resource.gov.uk or from Resource, 16 Queen Anne’s Gate, London SW1H 9AA. Tel 020 7273 1458.
The Oxford and Cambridge University Museums: A Global Contribution to Widening Knowledge and Deepening Understanding
Resource
ISBN 1 9-3743 31 1
This report explores the existing activity related to modern approaches to the delivery of museum services, the extent to which university museums are engaging in government priorities and their willingness to develop further in these areas. Available online on the website www.resource.gov.uk or from Resource, 16 Queen Anne’s Gate, London SW1H 9AA. Tel 020 7273 1458.
Creative Collaborations
The Scottish Arts Council with engage Scotland, the association of professional gallery educators, has re-launched a publication demonstrating the range of opportunities available to schools, community groups, artists and galleries to collaborate on projects in, and out of, a gallery setting.
Creative Collaborations; engaging with visual arts and crafts today presents a range of successful projects that have combined education with participation, provided new ways of working for artists and sparked interest from their new audiences. Alongside case studies, Creative Collaborations provides good-practice advice and a range of contacts. Copies are available from the Scottish Arts Council, 12 Manor Place, Edinburgh EH3 7DD. Tel 0845 603 6000. E-mail [email protected] Web www.scottisharts.org.uk
August 1, 2003
mda Conference. Free Places for Students / Newly Qualified Staff
10-12 September 2003, Winchester
Adlib Information Systems is offering 4 free sponsored places at this year’s mda Conference Collections and Creativity. The sponsorship is open to those currently studying for a museum or collections related qualification, and also those who have qualified during the last year and are in their first, or seeking their first, collections related post.
The sponsorship covers full conference attendance for the main days and includes accommodation, refreshments, lunch and entrance to the Trade Fair. Travel expenses and cost of evening events are not included.
Places are strictly limited and are offered on the basis of appropriate application and on a first come first served basis.
If you are interested in applying for a free place, please send an e-mail to both Ian Rowson ([email protected]) and Frances Bycroft ([email protected]) including the following details:
name
name of college / university
course of study
100 words describing why you wish to apply for sponsorship and the value you expect to gain from attending the mda conference.
Please respond as soon as possible and in any case before 22 August.
Further information about the conference itself, and how to apply for the sponsored places can be found on the web at www.mda.org.uk/conference2003/adlib.htm
Training Days for Cultural Coordinators, Museum Educators and Teachers
10 September 2003, Edinburgh
17 September 2003, Dundee
25 September 2003, Inverness
08 October 2003, Glasgow
All events are free of charge.
SMC has organised 4 training days in response to the Cultural Coordinators scheme (for information about Cultural Coordinators, see the SMC website). The purpose of the training days is to encourage Coordinators and teachers working with primary and secondary pupils to engage with the museums and heritage sector.
The events will offer a variety of sessions, including an introduction to heritage, on-site interpretation work, presentations on local projects, funding advice and an opportunity to network. If you want to attend one of the events or have a local project you would like to showcase, please contact SMC Learning and Access Advisor Becky Milner. Tel 0131 476 8591. E-mail [email protected]
Working Towards Social Justice
18 September 2003, Edinburgh
Free (supported by SMC Access Fund)
This day will provide you with the background to the social justice agenda, exploring its importance for future museum policy, and looking at opportunities and challenges it presents. The course will provide examples of strategies that museums can adopt so that they work in a more socially inclusive way. It will also cover how you can apply the action plan suggested in the SMC guideline document Museums and Social Justice to extend a socially inclusive approach in your museum. Contact Training, SMC, 20-22 Torphichen St., Edinburgh EH3 8JB. Tel 0131 476 8453. E-mail [email protected]
Wider Access Means More than Doors
25 September 2003, Edinburgh
Cost to be confirmed.
This engage Scotland seminar will explore how the sector can better engage with disabled people. It will include discussion of the SAC Disability Audit and will look at physical and attitudinal issues and recommendations for the sector. Further details will be available at the end of August. E-mail [email protected]
Introduction to Museum Documentation
2 October 2003, Coatbridge
£25 for SMC / ASVA members
£35 for non-members
Good documentation enables you to provide better access to the collections in your care, for all of your users. This course will explain the current basic documentation requirements for Registration and how you can implement these into a simple and effective documentation system for your museum. Contact Training, SMC, 20-22 Torphichen St., Edinburgh EH3 8JB. Tel 0131 476 8453. E-mail [email protected]
Museums Association Conference
6-8 October 2003, Brighton
Cost dependent on income / MA membership.
Speakers will examine changes taking place in museums and galleries, particularly in the English regions, for instance the new regional agencies, cultural consortia, and phase 1 hubs. The social role of museums will also feature, with discussion of a variety of approaches to social inclusion and audience development. Other sessions will cover topics such as leadership in the sector, workforce development, and salaries. Contact the Conference Office, Museums Association, 24 Calvin St., London E1 6NW. Tel 020 7426 6940. E-mail [email protected] Web www.museumsassociation.org
Skills Bank Induction
7 October 2003, Edinburgh
Free of charge
The skills bank programme offers an opportunity to focus on a particular management problem or task and the chance to broaden management skills. Business advisers can give assistance with issues such as marketing; business planning; financial control; strategic development; planning and forecasting; press and public relations; sales and trading; information technology; human resources; and managing change. Contact Carole Greenwood, Arts & Business Scotland, 6 Randolph Cres., Edinburgh EH3 7TH. Tel 0131 220 2499.
E-mail [email protected]
Web www.AandB.org.uk
Introduction to Board Membership
9 October 2003, Edinburgh
£35.25 (incl VAT)
This course will examine:
the basics of board membership
the board’s legal and financial responsibilities
the board as employer
planning and marketing
advocacy and fundraising
board / executive staff responsibilities.
Contact Carole Greenwood, Arts & Business Scotland, 6 Randolph Cres., Edinburgh EH3 7TH. Tel 0131 220 2499. E-mail [email protected] Web www.AandB.org.uk
Introduction to Marketing for the Arts
9 October 2003, Glasgow
£105
This de-mystifying workshop for tentative ‘marketeers’ will give a secure starting point, exploring a number of basic marketing tools to help you gain confidence, help you to realise your ambitions and to fulfil the potential of your organisation. Contact Gateway Arts Industry Network, Queen Margaret University College, Gateway Theatre, Elm Row, Edinburgh EH7 4AH. Tel 0131 317 3970. E-mail [email protected] Web www.qmuc.ac.uk/gain
Arts & Business ‘On The Road’ – Shetland
11 - 12 October 2003, Lerwick
Introduction to Sponsorship
11 October, 1pm - 5pm
£42.30 (incl VAT)
Board Membership
12 October, 10am - 4pm
£58.75 (incl VAT)
Discounted rate if both courses booked at the same time - £82.25 (incl VAT)
Sponsorship surgeries
12 October, half hour slots between 10am - 4pm
Free of charge, but to be booked in advance.
Contact Carole Greenwood, Arts & Business Scotland, 6 Randolph Cres., Edinburgh
EH3 7TH. Tel 0131 220 2499.
E-mail [email protected]
Web www.AandB.org.uk
Braving the Elements –
Making the Most of your Museum Environment
15 October 2003, Perth
£35 for SMC member volunteers,
(supported by The Binks Trust)
£70 for SMC / ASVA members
£90 for non-members
No museum has the perfect environment but this practical course will show you how to make the most of what you have got and how to improve it. It will look at steps towards making change, including finding out what environment you have, through monitoring, and working out what environment you need. You will also explore how to decide on priorities for improvement and making sure that the improvement lasts. You will have the opportunity to test a variety of environmental monitoring equipment to help you choose what is best for your needs and budget. The course is designed for those with a responsibility for preventative conservation or environmental monitoring in their museums. Contact Training, SMC, 20-22 Torphichen St., Edinburgh EH3 8JB. Tel 0131 476 8453. E-mail [email protected]
Preservation for Access. Managing Paper-Based Collections
15 October 2003, London
£50 for LMAL members
£60 for non-members
This training day will cover the development of preservation policy and strategy; emergency planning; environmental monitoring; packing and moving book and paper collections; wider conservation issues; and commissioning and managing conservators. Contact Caroline Reed, London Museums Agency, Cloister Court, 22–26 Farringdon Lane, London EC1R 3AJ. Tel 020 7549 1714. E-mail [email protected] Web www.lmal.org.uk
Scottish Museums Federation AGM
17 October 2003, Glasgow
Free for Federation members
[£10 per year to join SMF]
The Federation is an organisation for individuals in Scottish museums. Meetings, while focusing on topics which effect the museums sector in Scotland, are also a great opportunity to meet up informally with colleagues. Membership is open to everyone working in museums in Scotland, including students and volunteers. This year's AGM will include discussion of :
copyright legislation
cultural co-ordinators
strategic framework for Scottish museums
Strategic Change Fund
curating sensitive subjects
refurbishment of Kelvingrove.
There will also be a visit to the Glasgow Museums store at Nitshill.
To join the Federation, contact Isobel McDonald, GR 28 Albert Avenue, Queens Park, Glasgow G42 8RE.
To book a place at the AGM, contact Jilly Boid, Rozelle House Galleries, Monument Road, Ayr KA7 4NQ. E-mail [email protected]
Conserving the Past, Inspiring the Future: The Way Forward
17-19 October 2003, Leeds
£115
The British Association of Friends of Museums conference will examine ways in which buildings and the collections they house can contribute to a lifelong desire to learn about the arts and heritage. For details, contact Carol Bunbury. Tel 01566 782 440. E-mail [email protected] Web www.bafm.org.uk Send bookings to Valerie Jackson, Leeds Museums & Galleries, Town Hall, The Headrow, Leeds LS1 3AD.
Proposed Training in Lewis
Earlier this year, SCVO conducted training on The Big Picture in Lewis. This was well received and as a result there is a proposal to hold a further two events in October:
An Introduction to The Big Picture
21 October 2003
The Big Picture is a framework designed to help organisations and groups to improve the quality of their work through assessing their strengths and assisting them to plan, do and review improvements.
Peer Support Training
22-23 October 2003
This two-day training course aims to give participants the knowledge and skills to support other organisations to use The Big Picture framework and also an opportunity to learn how to use The Big Picture toolkit. Anyone interested in becoming a Peer Supporter should:
· have a role in developing local organisations
· be willing to participate in training
· have good facilitation and presentation skills.
At present SCVO is simply looking to determine if there is sufficient demand to run these events. If you are interested, please contact Sheila Fraser. Tel 0131 474 8022. E-mail [email protected]
Arts & Business ‘On The Road’ – Argyll
30 October 2003, Oban
Introduction to Sponsorship, 10.30 - 1.30pm, £35.25 (incl VAT)
Introduction to Board Membership, 2pm - 5pm, £35.25 (incl VAT)
£58.75 (incl VAT) if both courses booked.
Contact Carole Greenwood, Arts & Business Scotland, 6 Randolph Cres., Edinburgh EH3 7TH. Tel 0131 220 2499. E-mail [email protected] Web www.AandB.org.uk
Collections, Cultures Change
7-9 November 2003, Manchester
£100
This conference will explore intellectual, ethical, political, and practical dimensions of collections and collecting in the contemporary museum. The interdisciplinary debate will explore issues such as:
the history and future of the encyclopædic museum
the relationships between museums and source communities
the engagement between artists, collections, and museums
the idea of the reflexive museum, in theory and practice.
Contact Centre for Museology, School of Art History & Archaeology, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL. Tel 0161 275 3328. E-mail [email protected] Web www.art.man.ac.uk/museology
Copyright and Cultural Heritage
12 November, Perth
£50 for SMC/ASVA members
£75 for non-members
Museums and galleries collect and make available a wide range of materials, the copyright of which they do not own. Therefore they have a duty to protect the copyright owner’s rights. At the same time, they must achieve their basic mission of preserving their collections and making them available to the public in the widest possible sense. This course will examine the legal issues relevant to these areas and will assist participants to identify ways forward for their collections and users. Contact Training, SMC, 20-22 Torphichen St., Edinburgh EH3 8JB. Tel 0131 476 8453. E-mail [email protected]
