Compton Verney is inviting expressions of interest from experienced qualitative researchers or organisations to deliver visitor research during Heritage Open Days on 11-12 September. The commission will explore visitors' awareness of and interest in Compton Verney's wider heritage, including its built heritage, landscape, natural history and the stories of people connected to the site. The research will help identify which stories generate the greatest interest, how visitors would like to explore them, and whether an enhanced heritage offer could encourage repeat visits or attract new audiences. Findings will inform future interpretation and support a National Lottery Heritage Fund application. Compton Verney has already developed the research approach and will provide a semi-structured discussion guide, core research questions and a history timeline for use during fieldwork. The appointed researcher will review these materials, recommend minor refinements, conduct visitor interviews, analyse the findings and provide clear conclusions and recommendations. The commission includes an inception meeting, fieldwork across both Heritage Open Days, an interim report by 22 September, a final report by 30 September, a one-hour staff presentation and submission of primary research materials in an accessible format. The available budget is up to £3,500 plus VAT for up to seven days' work, including preparation, meetings, fieldwork, analysis, reporting, presentation, travel and expenses. Applicants should have demonstrable experience of qualitative visitor, audience or heritage research, ideally within a cultural, heritage or visitor-attraction setting. They must be available to undertake fieldwork at Compton Verney on 11-12 September and meet the interim and final reporting deadlines. The successful researcher or organisation should be confident conducting visitor interviews, recruiting a varied sample of participants, analysing qualitative findings and producing clear, evidence-based reports with practical recommendations. Strong written, verbal and presentation skills are essential, together with an inclusive and professional approach to engaging visitors. Applicants must be able to work within the available budget of up to £3,500 plus VAT, including all preparation, meetings, fieldwork, analysis, reporting, presentation, travel and expenses. Review the existing discussion guide, research questions and supporting materials, recommending minor refinements where appropriate. Attend an inception meeting to confirm the approach, timetable and fieldwork arrangements. Deliver visitor intercept interviews during Heritage Open Days on 11-12 September, recruiting an appropriate range of participants and facilitating inclusive, engaging discussions about Compton Verney's wider heritage. Record and manage research materials, analyse the findings and identify key themes, opportunities, barriers and practical recommendations. Prepare an interim report by 22 September and a final report by 30 September, incorporating feedback and clarifications. Deliver a one-hour presentation to Compton Verney staff summarising the headline findings, conclusions and recommendations. Submit primary research materials in a widely accessible format and work collaboratively with Compton Verney throughout the commission. To express your interest in this commission, please submit: A brief outline of your proposed approach, including your anticipated sample size and visitor recruitment method. Expressions of Interest should be emailed to Michelle Green, Audience Insights Lead, at [email protected] by Thursday 20 August, 23:59. Shortlisted applicants may be invited to an informal discussion during the week commencing 24 August.Job Summary
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A breakdown of time and costs, including your total fee for the commission.
Details of your relevant experience undertaking qualitative visitor, audience or heritage research.
Confirmation of your availability to undertake fieldwork on 11–12 September, together with any dates you are unavailable.
A brief CV for the lead researcher(s).