Aimy Stevens

I work at Edge Hill University and part of the 2024 cohort. Here, I am fortunate to engage with a range of fascinating collections, including film materials, which I’m especially passionate about. I’m also a mother of four, so balancing family life with study and professional development is a big part of my journey. My background is in film production, and it was through documentary work that I discovered my love for archives. After graduating from University, I realised I wanted to be on the side that preserves these kinds of records for their cultural value and long-term importance.

I had initially considered pursuing a Masters in Archives and Records Management, but as a parent, returning to full time study didn’t provide the stability I needed. The apprenticeship route has been ideal, it not only allows me to develop professionally while working, but it also helps to break down barriers and welcome diverse and new perspectives into the profession.

Before starting my apprenticeship, I had just graduated with a degree in Digital Film and TV Production. Alongside looking after my children, I worked a few jobs in the film and TV industry, in the locations department where I had the opportunity to work on a major feature film as well as some smaller BBC productions. At the same time, I was volunteering in local archive services including Liverpool John Moores University and St Helens Archive Service. I’m really grateful for those experiences, as they not only gave me a strong foundation and introduction into archival work but also helped me develop the skills and confidence I needed to successfully apply for my apprenticeship.

On my course, I am currently focusing on cataloguing, which is such an important part of being an archivist, Cataloguing ensures that records are properly described and organised so that users can discover them, make enquires and access the collections they’re interested in. I really enjoy this aspect because it feels like I’m opening up the archives to people making sure that materials which might otherwise remain hidden can actually be found, studied and
appreciated. It’s rewarding to know that the work I do directly helps connect people with the collections we look after.

I’m very grateful to have a tutor who is highly knowledgeable, experienced and well regarded in the archive sector. It’s a real privilege to be able to learn from professionals who bring their expertise to our lessons. I also really value how engaging the lessons are. My tutor creates a supportive environment where everyone feels included, and we’re encouraged to share our thoughts and voice our opinions. It makes the learning experience both enjoyable and
meaningful.

My greatest achievement at WAES has been a combination of personal and professional milestones. I am proud of the work I do everyday in my workplace where I can put what I learn on the course into practice and see it make a real difference. I’m also especially proud of achieving my Level 2 in Maths. It might seem small but having struggled so much with the subject at school, I never thought I would pass. With the right support this time, I not only achieved it but passed first time and I know this qualification will open more doors for me in the future. Another achievement I value is becoming a course rep. I enjoy supporting other apprentices as we are all on this journey together and its rewarding to play a part in building that sense of community which I feel is important in the small sector we work in. I was also able to attend the ARA conference in Bristol this year with the support of the ARA Section for New Professionals bursary. This opportunity led me to being invited onto the ‘Is It Okay?’ panel, where I shared my experiences of joining the sector through the apprenticeship route. I was very nervous at first but participating in the panel allowed me to develop my public speaking skills and gain confidence, which I am proud of.

I do face challenges on a daily basis, as a mother of four, balancing family life with full time work and study can sometimes feel overwhelming, but I’ve been very fortunate to have a workplace and WAES that are very understanding and supportive. I’ve also experienced challenges with my mental health, particularly living with OCD, but again being in such a supportive environment has made a big difference. Having the right people around me, who recognise those challenges and provide encouragement has helped me to manage them and keep moving forward.

I absolutely love working at Edge Hill University. I really feel like I have my dream job. Everyday I look forward to being in the archive, working with collections and learning so much about the profession. I also feel very fortunate to have such a supportive and welcoming team around me which makes the experience even more enjoyable.

When I have finished the course, I hope to be working as an Archivist with film collections. The course has provided me with incredible opportunities to network within the archives sector. Through the course I have visited other archive services and built strong relationships with other professionals. I’m now involved in a few sector initiatives including the ARA conference committee, Explore Your Archives podcast team and The Archive Group for the Liverpool City Region. These experiences have not only expanded my network but have also helped me establish myself as someone active and engaged in the sector which will be invaluable for my future career.

If I were giving advice to someone considering this course at WAES, I would say that the combination of professional work and study is incredibly valuable as it helps you to become a well rounded professional. Don’t be afraid to go for it, even if you have a busy life like I do, your workplace and WAES will work with you to support your needs and help you build the skills for a successful career. The archive sector is not only fun and enjoyable but it is also a very privileged role as you get to preserve important records for the future!