Apprenticeship Program - New Bedford Whaling Museum
Apprentices at the 2018 New Bedford Whaling Museum Gala.

APPRENTICESHIP Program

The Museum offers a variety of learning, research, and
career development opportunities to students, scholars and educators. Please read below for more information on the High School Apprenticeship Program, a paid three-year experience for high school students at the Museum.

High School Apprenticeship Program

Applications open March 1, 2024! The New Bedford Whaling Museum is now recruiting current 9th grade students for our paid 3-year High School Apprenticeship Program. We are looking for curious, motivated students interested in learning and working at the New Bedford Whaling Museum.

Learn More Here

APPLICATION PROCESS

  • Paper Application forms are also available at the Museum's front desk. 
  • Completed forms and a copy of your most recent report card can be submitted by email to Phoebe Magee, Manager of Young Adult Programs. Completed forms and a copy of your most recent report card can be submitted by mail to Phoebe Magee at 18 Johnny Cake Hill, New Bedford MA 02740. 
  • Potential candidates will be invited to the Museum for an interview.

ELIGIBILITY

To be eligible for the Apprenticeship Program, applicants must be New Bedford residents currently enrolled in the 9th grade and in good academic standing. Applicants must meet income levels as defined on the first page of the application. As part of the enrollment  process, New Apprentices will submit a signed Income Verification Form, as required by our funders.

Contact

Phoebe Magee
Manager of Young Adult Programs

(508) 997-0046 x187
pmagee@education.whalingmuseum.org

Manager of Young Adult Programs, Phoebe Magee, is happy to schedule a virtual or in-person info session for your classroom. Interested students can also sign up to visit the Museum, or meet the Program Manager.

Please do not hesitate to contact Phoebe with any questions: pmagee@education.whalingmuseum.org or (508) 997-0046 x187.

A 2017 National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award winner, the New Bedford Whaling Museum’s High School Apprenticeship Program provides high school students in New Bedford with access to resources and experiences that deepen community engagement, promote personal and professional development, and cultivate college and career success.

The Apprenticeship Program enrolls students who are entering the tenth grade and who live in New Bedford. Apprentices learn about whales and whale biology, the history of their city and the stories of the countless people whose culture, language, and accomplishments are exhibited throughout the Museum. Students then connect their learning at the Museum to real-world experiences, visiting cultural sites, planning and hosting events and serving as Museum ambassadors. At the same time, the program helps Apprentices prepare for their futures. Apprentices visit college campuses, listen to career speakers, go on career shadows, and receive support through the college application and financial aid process.

Students who are accepted into the Apprenticeship Program attend a 6-week summer program and a school-year program that runs from October – June each year. The Apprenticeship is a 3-year commitment and apprentices are paid a stipend throughout their time in the program.

Does this sound like you? We invite future Apprentices to watch the video below to learn more.

Support the Apprenticeship Program

Help the Whaling Museum provide local students with access to these resources and valuable experiences. Your donation in any amount is appreciated.