Applications are closed for 2026. We will open applications in January 2027 for placements in the 2027 school summer holidays.
Go behind the scenes at the Royal Observatory!
Work experience is a great way to get a feel for a profession, so if you're curious about what we do at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, then why not apply for a work experience placement?
Please note that the Royal Observatory Astronomy team is currently based at the National Maritime Museum while the Observatory undergoes refurbishments. There's more information on that project here.
The National Maritime Museum also offers work experience placements. Head here for more information.
Tell me more!
Our work experience placement offers secondary school students from years 10-13 the opportunity to go behind the scenes with the Astronomy team to see what we do on a day-to-day basis and what our various programmes, both formal and informal, offer to visitors.
The successful applicant will spend one week with us in summer 2027.
What would a work experience student do?
A work experience student will learn more about astronomy and science communication and will be involved in a number of activities including, but not limited to:
- Sitting in on some onsite sessions for schools or the public, evaluating the sessions and suggesting improvements.
- Writing a script about what's in the night sky for a particular month to be included in our Night Sky Highlights blog.
- Chatting with one of the astronomers to find out about what it's like to be an astronomer. You'll be able to ask them any university or career-related questions you may have.
- Learning what the Royal Observatory astronomers do day to day to engage the public with astronomy in different forms, including the option to talk to the public yourself.
Will all activities take place onsite at the Observatory?
The Astronomy Team will be based at the National Maritime Museum due to renovation works taking place at the Observatory, and so most of your time will be spent at the National Maritime Museum. One day will be a work-from-home day.
How many places do you have?
We are able to offer nine students work experience placements with us, covering three weeks in the 2027 summer holidays, with three students each week.
How do I apply?
Applications for placements in 2027 will open at the start of January 2027 and close on 25 March 2027. The Astronomy team will shortlist applications and contact applicants after the Easter holidays, during the week of 12th April. If you have any questions before or after applying, please get in touch with the team via ROGEducation@rmg.co.uk
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