By Rasyiqah Hassan
I never envisioned myself Embarking on a journey to pursue further studies in England. At the age of 33, the contemplation of initiating a new chapter in life, while maintaining job stability and a modest income (albeit less lucrative after several years), seemed unconventional. Nevertheless, the recognition that an opportunity abroad should not be squandered prevailed.
Upon successfully transitioning from a MPhil to a PhD (Which a normal process for a PhD students in the UK), the ensuing period was dedicated to the meticulous preparation required for the fieldwork. However, with the onset of summer, I realized that I needed a job to cover my expenses for the fieldwork, which is not covered by scholarship fees, was imperative. As a solution, I began exploring avenues for employment, considering diverse opportunities such as working as a waiter at Oxford Colleges. This venture not only offered a means of covering expenses but also presented an opportunity to explore the intricacies concealed behind the walls and alleys of Oxford University Colleges, used by the management team. Notably, advertisements from Oxford Castle and Prison emerged as particularly captivating.
honestly, when I applied to the position, I swear that I pray every day that I got it. While the perception of a ‘guest service’ position may not resonate to some people, I, with a distinct perspective, recognized the foundational role of guest service in effectively promoting heritage from the very basic. The subsequent interview process proved to be a captivating and distinctive experience, evoking a profound desire to articulate my earnest interest to the manager. Noteworthy was the unique thematic focus of the interview, which exclusively delved into my comprehension of British culture—a departure from conventional interview frameworks.
The interview session proved to be an engaging experience, prompting an almost instinctive impulse to express my strong interest in the position to the Manager. What particularly captured my attention was the distinctive nature of the questions posed during this interview, setting it apart from any prior interview encounters. In contrast to conventional inquiries related to one’s professional background or ongoing research, the focal point of this interview was markedly centered on an exploration of my knowledge pertaining to British culture.
The pivotal moment of this distinctive interview occurred with the inquiry:
“If you were given one million, what is the first thing you would do?”
This unanticipated and unconventional question added an intriguing dimension to the interview process. Notably, the question veered away from the conventional discourse of research and academia, allowing me a platform to showcase my enthusiasm and thought processes beyond the academic realm. It was this unexpected yet captivating question that, in my assessment, played a decisive role in framing the trajectory of the interview.
After two weeks I successfully become their part time guest service.
Working Culture
As the summer season began, it became evident that it held unparalleled anticipation for the British populace, as well as individuals worldwide. This period witnessed a plethora of meticulously planned activities by various organizations, centres, communities, and notably, museums—the latter being a personal favourite. The prospect of squandering the summer indoors seemed inconceivable, barring the exception of those, like myself, engrossed in the pursuit of a PhD.
During this season, the Shakespeare Open Theatre emerged as a quintessential and widely embraced activity across the nation. Oxford Castle, cognizant of the cultural zeitgeist, actively participated in this seasonal phenomenon. In conjunction with the open theatre performances, a beverage shop was instituted at the castle grounds, coinciding with the three-hour duration of the shows. This cultural exposition deemed an indispensable British experience, served as an unmissable focal point of summer activities.
Noteworthy among Oxford Castle’s offerings was the perennially well-received Castle Tour, an attraction seldom marred by negative feedback. The array of activities planned for the onset of May extending through the entirety of summer underscored the institution’s commitment to providing diverse and enriching experiences. Augmenting this initiative, the alignment of activities extended to the gift shops, where curated displays reflected concurrent themes. For instance, during the designated “Shakespeare’s month,” the gift shops featured an exclusive showcase of Shakespearean-themed merchandise, further enhancing the immersive experience.
This undertaking demands meticulous planning, and I have discovered that one of my most satisfying responsibilities is stationed at the counter, particularly during the delivery arrivals. This facet of my role provides a unique opportunity to observe the restocking of the castle’s inventory following the designated monthly themes. The items procured for the gift shop are notably rare and distinctive, exemplified by artefacts such as the ‘Arthur sword letter opener,’ as well as personal favourites like the statues of Merlin, Tankard, templars Goblet and the sword replicas The Excalibur. The shop’s curated selection renders each item an ideal and exquisite gift.
Notably, the constrained spatial dimensions of our storage facilities, situated in the castle cells, accentuate the importance of creative inventory management. The inherent limitation of space necessitates a thoughtful approach to the organization and storage of the delivered items. The cells, serving as both stockroom and thematic storage, present a unique challenge that demands ingenuity in arranging and presenting the merchandise.
My opportunities to comprehend the intricacies of the stock cells’ operational system have been limited but invaluable. These occasions have provided insights into the strategic utilization of the confined space and the systematic placement of items according to the thematic considerations of each month. The interplay of creativity and logistical acumen in managing this distinctive stockroom environment has proven to be an enriching aspect of my engagement at Oxford Castle.
THE OXFORD SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL at the castle ground.
The British Culture…
The quintessential celebration of British culture at the castle manifests in the highly esteemed Knight School—an unparalleled event in the endeavor to acquaint individuals with the rich tapestry of British heritage. The desire to become a knight and undergo the knighting ceremony is universally resonant. Remarkably, the tour guides overseeing this event are trained by none other than the castle’s staff, individuals that is professionally trained in medieval sword fighting.
While the Knight School exudes an air of seriousness due to its historical roots, it is exclusively tailored for children aged 9 to 12, ensuring an atmosphere replete with enjoyment. The staff, committed to infusing an element of fun, guide the young squires through a comprehensive training regimen encompassing horse riding, lance tournaments, and one-on-one sword fighting with the castle’s esteemed ‘Sir’to guide those young squires. Parents can rest assured, as the entire experience unfolds within a secure environment. Equipped with wooden swords, the young participants are ceremoniously knighted upon completing their training, receiving a certificate as a testament to their newfound prowess.
Notably, the Knight School’s dedication to authenticity is underscored by the fact that the training persists even in inclement weather, epitomizing the resilience and toughness historically associated with knights. This immersive experience not only imparts a sense of the glory inherent in British history but also fosters pride in one’s cultural heritage and civilization.
A particularly commendable aspect of this initiative is the existence of ‘The Knight Handbook,’ crafted in a manner that children can readily appreciate and comprehend. This unexpected yet thoughtful addition enhances the educational value of the Knight School, ensuring that young participants not only undergo an entertaining experience but also gain a nuanced understanding of the essence of knighthood and its historical significance.
The real guided tour
An invaluable lesson that I have gleaned during this peak season is the meticulous training employed for the tour guides. Operating on a tight schedule with tours commencing every 15 minutes during the summer months necessitates a strategic allocation of time. Predominantly comprised of British guides adorned in medieval or prisoners’ costumes to preserve its authenticity, the tour guides at the castle are commendable for their genuine enthusiasm, informative delivery, and unwavering smiles. Conducting tours at such frequency, repeating narratives every hour becomes an arduous and fatiguing task, yet these guides exhibit remarkable resilience and proficiency in their roles.
I hold immense respect for the tour guides at the castle who, despite the challenges, deliver information with a palpable passion, ensuring an engaging and authentic experience for visitors. Most of them undergo a rigorous recruitment process, wherein storytelling proficiency is complemented by an evident enthusiasm for history. This highlights a commendable commitment to maintaining a high standard of knowledge among the guides, a practice that could be emulated elsewhere. It is noteworthy to mention that the majority of the staff at Oxford Castle have attained degrees in disciplines such as History, Literature, Education or even architecture. This educational background underscores the commitment to academic rigor and a nuanced understanding of the subjects central to the castle’s historical narrative. This commitment to academic expertise contributes significantly to the immersive and educational quality of the overall visitor experience.
In contrast, I reflect on the challenges in Malaysia where the cultivation of historical understanding often lacks depth, and individuals may be hesitant to transcend the confines of conventional textbooks. The dedication exhibited by the castle’s tour guides underscores the importance of delving deeper into historical knowledge, fostering an appreciation for the subject matter, and thereby enriching the tour experience. Of course this shall be my own personal view.
Moving forward
While words may offer a glimpse into this unique experience, a true understanding necessitates a visit to the castle. The immersive nature of the tours, coupled with the commitment of the guides, culminates in an experience that transcends mere description and is best comprehended firsthand. Engaging in the summer experience at Oxford Castle has provided me with invaluable insights into the realm of conservation and preservation, extending beyond mere adherence to established guidelines and policies. Through this immersive experience, I’ve gained a nuanced understanding of the practical intricacies involved in safeguarding historical and cultural heritage. The hands-on exposure to the castle’s conservation efforts has illuminated the significance of supplementing formal regulations with a proactive, adaptive approach. This approach involves a keen appreciation for the dynamic nature of historical sites and the need to implement measures that transcend conventional frameworks. In essence, this summer experience has broadened my perspective on conservation and preservation, revealing that successful endeavors in this realm necessitate a blend of academic expertise, practical application, and a keen sensitivity to the evolving dynamics of heritage sites.
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Rasyiqah Hassan 