Thomas Farrell
Chester
Summary
Classics graduate from the University of Bristol with a strong interest in heritage, museums, archaeology and public engagement. Selected for the British School of Athens Summer Cultural Exchange Programme in 2025, one of only 30 places awarded nationally. Experienced in customer-facing roles and welcoming visitors in heritage, retail and event environments. Skilled in research, communication and organisation, with a particular enthusiasm for sharing history and culture in an engaging and accessible way.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
4
4
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Student Gowning Assistant (Seasonal)
Ede & Ravenscroft
Liverpool and Manchester
2025.06 - 2025.07
- Assisted students and families during university graduation events in fast-paced public environments
- Organised and distributed academic gowns efficiently and professionally
- Communicated confidently with large numbers of students and visitors
- Represented the company in a polite, professional and approachable manner
- Supported smooth running of graduation events as part of a team
Bookseller
Clifton Community Bookshop
Bristol
2023.06 - 2025.07
- Delivered friendly and knowledgeable customer service in a busy independent bookshop
- Recommended books and engaged customers in discussions about literature and history
- Managed stock organisation, sorting and labelling
- Worked independently while maintaining a welcoming environment
- Processed online orders promptly for speedy customer delivery.
- Handled special orders from customers efficiently which resulted in higher levels of customer satisfaction.
Assistant (Work Placement)
Kenworthy's Chambers
Manchester
2018.07 - 2018.07
- Assisted with administrative tasks in a professional office environment
- Communicated politely with visitors and staff
- Demonstrated organisation and attention to detail
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
Museum Assistant (Work Placement)
Chester Regimental Museum
Cheshire West and Chester
2017.08 - 2017.09
- Greeted visitors in a professional and approachable manner
- Assisted with museum duties and tasks
- Supported administrative tasks and visitor experience
Education
Summer School Cultural Exchange Programme
British School At Athens
Greece 2025.08 - 2025.09
MA - International Relations
Queen's University Belfast
Belfast, Northern Ireland 2025.09 - 2025.12
BA - Classical Studies
University of Bristol
Bristol 2021.09 - 2025.07
A Levels - Theology, History, English Literature
The Catholic High School
ChesterSkills
- Visitor engagement and public interaction
- Heritage and historical knowledge
- Customer service and communication
- Organisational and administrative support
- Cash handling and accountability
- Team collaboration and independent work
- Stock sorting and labelling
- Professional manner
- Excellent analytical and research skills
Affiliations
- Bell ringing and church heritage. Visiting and enjoying National Trust Heritage sites
ADDITIONAL INTERESTS
Classical history and archaeology, Museums and heritage preservation, Literature and historical research, Public engagement and visitor experience.
PERSONAL CIRCUMSTANCES / CAREER GAP
- January 2026 – June 2026
- Personal circumstances / health-related break
- Focused on recovery, stability, and personal development
- Maintained interest in heritage, museums and cultural engagement
- Now fully ready to re-engage with volunteering opportunities
Timeline
MA - International Relations
Queen's University Belfast
2025.09 - 2025.12
Summer School Cultural Exchange Programme
British School At Athens
2025.08 - 2025.09
Student Gowning Assistant (Seasonal)
Ede & Ravenscroft
2025.06 - 2025.07
Bookseller
Clifton Community Bookshop
2023.06 - 2025.07
BA - Classical Studies
University of Bristol
2021.09 - 2025.07
Assistant (Work Placement)
Kenworthy's Chambers
2018.07 - 2018.07
Museum Assistant (Work Placement)
Chester Regimental Museum
2017.08 - 2017.09
A Levels - Theology, History, English Literature
The Catholic High School