Teen Programs

The Junior Docent Program

The Junior Docent Program is a group of dynamic teen peers (grades 9–12) who meet regularly to engage with art and science, meet with field experts, plan events for other teens, and facilitate educational programming for visitors.

Eligibility

• Must be a current high school student (grade 9–12).
• Available to attend all mandatory trainings and events.
• A commitment to fulfilling all the responsibilities of the program.

Responsibilities

• Commit to attending at least 75% of trainings and actively participating in all trainings, held on Sunday mornings and select Mondays after school (October–June).
• Sign up to assist with at least 9 programs (or approximately 1 program per month) between October and June.
  • These programs must include:
    • At least 1 Gallery Cart
    • At least 1 Family Day
    • At least 1 Weekend Program
• Engage visitors of all ages in meaningful conversations about art and science.
• Serve as a positive representative of the Bruce Museum in all public-facing roles.
• Complete and present a Final Project in the spring, reflecting on your experiences throughout the year.
• Plan, host, and promote events for fellow teens.
• Maintain accurate timesheets and submit hours on time.
• Communicate promptly and professionally with staff regarding scheduling and any questions.

Benefits & Compensation

• Stipend of $16.94/hour for trainings and programs.
• 15% discount at the Bruce Museum Store.
• Opportunities to build leadership, communication, and public speaking skills through public engagement and teamwork.
• Behind-the-scenes access to museum professionals and career pathways.
• Fully funded field trips to museums and other cultural institutions.
• A community of motivated and engaged teens.

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: Friday, August 21, 2026, 11:59pm
• 1st Round Interview Notification: Rolling until Friday, August 28
• 2nd Round Group Interview Notification: Thursday, September 10
• 2nd Round Group Interviews: Sunday, September 6 and/or Sunday, September 13
• Decision Notification: Sunday, September 20
• Mandatory Junior Docent Orientation: Sunday, October 4, 10am–12pm

Apply

Applications are due Friday, August 21, 11:59pm

How to Apply:

• Complete the Junior Docent Application 2026
• One letter of recommendation from a teacher, school administrator, or another adult who is not related to you and can speak to why you would be a strong candidate for the Bruce Museum's Junior Docent Program.
  • This recommendation letter should be sent to juniordocents@brucemuseum.org with “Your last name Junior Docent 27” as the subject.

What to Expect After Applying

Important Communication Information

All communication regarding your application will be sent via email. It is your responsibility to ensure that your email address is accurate and regularly monitored. Be sure to check your spam or junk folders for messages from the Bruce Museum.

Step 1: Application Review

Once both your application and recommendation letter have been received, your materials will be reviewed for consideration for a first-round interview. Incomplete applications or failure to meet application requirements may result in disqualification from consideration.

Step 2: First-Round Interview

Selected applicants will be invited to participate in a first-round interview. Interviews will be conducted in person at the Museum on a rolling basis throughout the summer.

Step 3: Second-Round Group Interview

Applicants who advance to the next stage will be invited to participate in a second-round group interview.

Applicants moving forward must be available on Sunday, September 6 and/or Sunday, September 13.

The group interview will be conducted alongside other Junior Docent applicants and evaluated by a team of Museum Staff and current Junior Docents serving on the Teen Council. The session will include icebreakers, collaborative discussions, and creative group activities.

Step 4: Final Selection

Final decisions will be made through a holistic review of each applicant's submitted materials and performance during both interview rounds. Applications are evaluated by a team of Museum Staff and Teen Council members.

Questions?

If you have any questions about the application process, please contact juniordocents@brucemuseum.org.