Aimee's apprenticeship journey at Blenheim Palace

Discover how a chance conversation led to a career in Built Heritage 👇

Ever had a hobby accidentally shape your entire career path?
That’s exactly what happened to Aimee.

Back at university, Aimee was deep in her architecture studies, full of ideas but not quite sure where she wanted to land. She did know one thing though: she adored historic houses and dreamed of working in one someday.

Then, plot twist! During a netball match, she struck up a conversation with someone new. And not just anyone…but the HR manager from Blenheim Palace. As you do.

It turned out the HR manager was just about to post an apprentice project manager role and thought Aimee should absolutely apply.

So she did.

And now, three years later? Aimee is a key member of Blenheim’s Built Heritage team, helping deliver a once-in-a-lifetime roof restoration project at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Not bad for a chance court-side chat.

It just goes to show: you truly never know where a new connection might lead. 🏛️✨

Want to dive deeper into Aimee’s journey and hear what her day-to-day as a junior project manager is really like? Watch the video below 👇

Credit: Additional external/drone footage by Pete Seaward, courtesy of Blenheim Palace

Aimee's story

🌟 Aimee’s big takeaways?

There are WAY more heritage jobs out there than you think. Seriously — whole careers you’ve never even heard of are quietly waiting for the right person. Ask around, be nosey, and you might stumble across a role that feels like it was made for you.
Apprenticeships = the ultimate “level up.” You get paid and you learn on the job? Aimee swears it’s one of the best ways to kickstart a heritage career without needing a decade of experience first.
Work–life balance? It’s not a myth. Aimee’s role gives her time to do her job and enjoy life outside of it. Proof that the heritage sector isn’t all dusty archives and late nights.
Daily behind-the-scenes magic is part of the deal. Not everyone gets to wander around a UNESCO World Heritage Site before their morning coffee, but Aimee does. Seeing secret corners of Blenheim Palace is one of the best perks of her job.

How to start your own heritage journey?

Create a free account now, speak to people like Aimee and find opportunities like hers.