Museums Galleries Scotland has launched an initiative looking to address the lack of accessible entry routes into museum jobs for non-university graduates.

The scheme will see 22 non-graduates from a wide range of backgrounds being offered one-year, paid learning placements in museums and galleries throughout Scotland.

Participants on the Skills for Success programme, funded by The National Lottery, will each receive a £15,000 (US$20,000, €17,000) bursary and will complete an SVQ level 3 qualification in Museums and Galleries Practice with the support of mentors, supervisors and assessors.

The first cohort of 22 students were selected from 175 applicants from all over Scotland. The successful candidates – which range from school leavers to experienced professionals with backgrounds in hospitality, music and retail – have now begun their learning.

They will work alongside professionals in their host museum or gallery to learn a range of core museum skills including digitising collections, learning and engagement, and volunteer management.

The trainees will be based in museums spanning from the Pier Arts Centre in Orkney to Hawick Museum in the Borders, and well as major visitor attractions like the National Museum of Scotland and Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

"The Skills for Success programme offers a flexible learning opportunity, a recognised qualification, and invaluable sector-based experience to our 22 exceptional learners," said John McLeish, Interim CEO of Museums Galleries Scotland.

"The programme represents an alternative route into the sector for those who have not attended university, and is a key component of MGS’s commitment to diversifying Scotland’s museum workforce."