November 12, 2024, by Joe

Rozelin Pehlivan – Nottingham Girl’s High School

This summer, I had the opportunity to intern as an archivist at Nottingham Girls’ High School (NGHS), which is celebrating its 150th anniversary. This role was part of the Widening Participation Summer Internship programme and involved working with the school’s extensive archives to highlight its history and notable contributions to education.

Initial Expectations vs. Reality

Upon accepting the internship, I anticipated a summer filled with document scanning and basic archival work. I expected a solitary environment focused on organizing materials, perhaps with occasional research tasks. However, I soon realized that my role would involve much more than just preserving files; I would be diving deep into the history of the institution and its impact on generations of students.

Duties and Discoveries as an Archivist Intern

As an archivist intern, my primary responsibility was to assist with the 150th-anniversary project by digitizing and cataloguing significant documents, photographs, and artifacts from the school’s history. This included early ledgers, uniforms, letters, photos and art, headmistresses’ reports, newsletters, prospectuses, and letters from notable alumni. I spent many hours scanning documents, ensuring they were preserved in high quality for future access. Additionally, I conducted research on key figures in the school’s history, particularly the headmistresses who shaped its educational philosophy. I compiled profiles on these women, detailing their contributions and the challenges they faced in advancing girls’ education.

One of the most enriching aspects of my internship was uncovering stories about the school’s influential women. For instance, the school had a committee dedicated to producing their own magazine, compiled into a few volumes known as the Whetstone of Whit. These volumes contained beautiful drawings, poems, and short stories that truly touched my soul. Knowing how dedicated these students were to their work inspired my enthusiasm for archival work. While reviewing historical documents, I became engrossed in the lives of the early headmistresses, who overcame funding challenges and lack of support. Discoveries like this highlighted the school’s long-lasting impact on its students’ lives and careers.

Skills and Personal Growth

Throughout my internship, I developed a range of skills. I became proficient in archival digitization techniques and learned the importance of meticulous cataloguing. Researching historical figures improved my analytical skills and taught me how to construct a narrative based on primary sources. Additionally, I enhanced my ability to work independently and manage my time effectively to meet project deadlines.

One of my significant achievements was contributing to a curated exhibit for the 150th-anniversary celebration. I selected key artefacts and documents that illustrated the school’s history and its role in advancing girls’ education. Seeing my contributions presented to the school community was rewarding and reinforced the importance of preserving such histories.

Reflections and Advice for Future Archivist Interns

My time at NGHS provided me with invaluable insights into the role of education in shaping society, particularly for women. I came to appreciate the complexities of historical preservation and the responsibility of archivists to maintain the narratives of institutions. The internship was not just a job; it was an opportunity to engage with the past and understand how it informs the present. I never felt alienated from my work, and the experience even sparked my interest in possibly becoming a fashion archivist.

For those considering a similar internship, I wholeheartedly recommend approaching the role with an open mind. Be ready to engage deeply with the materials and stories you encounter. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek guidance from supervisors and mentors. The work can be meticulous, but the discoveries and connections you make will make it worthwhile.

A Transformative Experience

My internship at Nottingham Girls’ High School was truly special and an enriching experience that allowed me to delve into a significant part of educational history. It highlighted the importance of preserving the legacies of those who came before us and the impact of education on generations of women, contrasting with the opportunities available to women today. I am grateful for the experience and look forward to applying the skills I gained in future endeavours.

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