Ayse Dogrulmaz is a Trainee Archivist at The Mercers' Company, a livery company focused on being a philanthropic force for good. Ayse started the Level 7 Archivist and Records Manager apprenticeship in September 2023 through Westminster Adult Education Service (WAES).
What are the responsibilities of your role and what does a typical day look like for you?
As a Trainee Archivist my responsibilities tie into the daily tasks expected to be carried out in an archive setting. These tasks can include activities such as assisting my line manager and manager in answering and researching enquiries, assisting in exhibition prep and installation. My role is also linked into the company membership, specifically liaising with the wider membership and members, due to the nature of the business, members are very personable, and most have been born into it. In a traditional setting they would be considered our stakeholders.
A typical day consists of researching relevant avenues, recently I have spent a good amount of time on a manor house in Sussex called Hengrave Hall, which has led into researching stained glass windows from the 17th century! Alongside this I also help with answering enquiries, due to the nature of the business most of our enquiries are focussed on family and the city of London history.
We have just completed an exhibition installation, the exhibition is on Cheapside, which used to be the commercial hub of London. Citizens of London could expect to find a vast array of goods, ranging from fine gold wares and silks, to doing their weekly shop in the market stalls lining the length of the road!
What has surprised you the most about the apprenticeship and the industry?
The most surprising aspect of the apprenticeship is that I’m a part of the first cohort for this specific course, I am very excited to see where this could lead all of us who are currently in the course.
The most surprising aspect of the heritage industry for me would be how little is known about it within certain demographics, and other diverse backgrounds, I think the apprenticeship will be a great way to cast a wider net across all boards and allow for diversification.
Do you have any highlights or a memorable moment from your apprenticeship?
I am sure there are more memorable highlights to come, however, for now the highlight was visiting St Johns college archives! It was very interesting to see how similar their archival collection is to the ones I work closely with.
What’s been the biggest learning curve?
The biggest learning curve so far has been balancing the learning and assignments with my daily work, such as remembering to have evidence of tasks I do now because they will be coming up in the 3rd year!
Why did you decide to take the apprenticeship route into the industry?
My manager encouraged me to do so, and I have had previous experience with another apprenticeship standard that I really enjoyed doing.
What advice would you give to those considering an apprenticeship?
The best advice I can give anyone considering an apprenticeship route, is to absolutely go for it! The possibilities and opportunities are almost endless, its also very rewarding to implement your learning in real time.
The Mercers’ Company is a livery company focused on being a philanthropic force for good. They have a rich history dating back over 700 years with philanthropy as the common thread between our past, present and future. Each year their aim is to distribute £10 million to charitable causes. Their giving is focused on Young People & Education, Older People & Housing and Church & Communities. Find out more.
The National Archives helped to develop and launch the Level 7 Archives and Records Management Apprenticeship across in England. As the official archive and publisher for the UK government and for England and Wales, The National Archives is the guardian of some of our most iconic national documents, dating back over 1,000 years. Find out more.