Andrew Richards, Warden, Windsor Castle
I am Warden based at Windsor Castle and I work for Royal Collection Enterprises, the section of the Royal Collection Department responsible for public access to the Royal Collection.
How did you get your job with the Royal Household?
I decided to apply for the post of Warden after a personal recommendation from a friend who also worked within the Royal Household.
What did you do before joining the Royal Household?
Having completed my Masters of Arts degree in theology and religious studies, I chose to join the Royal Household in order to gain experience of working within a completely unique environment.
Describe a typical day.
A typical day will consist of providing members of the public with information and helping them with any needs that they may have. The team of wardens is fairly large, and we all rotate positions so that you never get bored in one place. On any given day you could be working within the State Rooms of the Castle answering questions about the Castle's history and the specific objects on display, or outside at the main entrance where you can be asked just about anything!
What experience or qualifications do you need to work as a warden?
The most important qualities needed are good people skills, confident and communication skills. You must also enjoy working with the public and within a team, and needless to say, have a passion for history.
What training and support are available to you?
One of the great aspects of the job is that you never stop learning. Virtually every day you will be asked something new by a member of the public, but thanks to the fantastic team atmosphere amongst the wardens, you're never left alone to struggle with an answer. In turn, there is a wide range of books available to all staff should anyone feel the need to research anything further.
More structured customer service training is also provided to all front-line staff so that all visitors have a rewarding and enjoyable visit.
What's it like working for the Royal Household?
Even with such a large workforce, the Royal Household maintains a really friendly and intimate atmosphere in which everyone is only too happy to help one another. The Royal Household Social Club and various other social events also provide great amusement!
What is the best thing about your job?
Meeting and working with people from all over the world.
What opportunities do you get that you would not get elsewhere?
Firstly, I get to work within a castle dating back nearly one thousand years, and furthermore the perks and benefits available to Royal Household staff are excellent, not least the discounts available in the Royal Collection shops.
