We set up the Culture and Creative Industries Sector Skills Council (CCI-SSC), which provides guidance on training for the sector.

We recognise the need for improved leadership and management in the museums sector and are a regular participant in the National Museum Directors Conference's Leadership Working Party.

The Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) has developed a Workforce Development Strategy to which we have contributed, and which the CCI-SSC supports. You can find our more about their role in this sector by visiting the MLA's Workforce Development page.

We and the MLA have also contributed to the Clore Leadership Programme by funding a small number of fellows in the programme.

The MLA helped set up the Museums Association's Diversify project, which aims to offer at least 50 positive action traineeships or bursaries by the end of 2006.

Jobseeking?
This is a very competitive area, so if you are interested in working in a museum or gallery, you may want to consider volunteering to build up experience.

Short, fixed term contracts are common and you will need to be willing to move around the country to advance your career.

Most posts ask for a degree in a related subject area, work experience and possibly a postgraduate qualification. A number of post-graduate courses are offered in Museums Management should you wish to extend your qualifications.

The Museums Association has a section of information and advice for those seeking careers in the sector.

The University of Leicester's Department for Museums Studies offers information about jobs in museums, heritage and archaeology.

The Guardian jobs website advertises jobs in the sector.