Meet Gwyn, Murtle Market Store Coordinator

Our 'Meet the Team' series aims to highlight the exceptional staff and volunteers who work hard to make Camphill School Aberdeen the wonderful place that it is. Next up in our 'Meet the Team' series is Gwyn Mcintosh, Store Coordinator at Murtle Market.

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What were you doing before taking on the role at Murtle Market?

I was a manager for Irish Cancer Society in Dublin for 10 years. I managed a shop in the south of Dublin and one in the city centre, and studied interior design and window dressing while I was working there.

In 2012 we decided to move to Aberdeen to be near my husband’s mum and dad, and to help them run their farm. It was a big decision and huge change for me coming from Dublin city to Aberdeen!

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How did you hear about the job and what appealed to you?  

I had previously volunteered in the farm and gardens at Camphill School Aberdeen so was always on the lookout for something that would suit me.

I was watching the football on tv with my husband Gus and let's just say the match wasn't very captivating, so I was scrolling on my phone when the job advert for Shop Coordinator at Murtle Market popped up. It was just what I was looking for!

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What does a typical day look like for you?

Some days are busy with local walking groups dropping in for drinks and cake, while others are quieter with a steady flow throughout the day. There’s always background work to do during the quieter moments, and the warm atmosphere makes it a great place to be, with plenty of regulars and new faces too.

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What’s the most rewarding moment you’ve had in this role so far?

When the students come up to Murtle Market with their cards and crafts that they have made, it's a real joy to see. Seeing the young people who work in the café gaining confidence, learning new skills and chatting with customers is especially rewarding.

Seeing people happily sitting in Murtle Market and enjoying themselves is also very rewarding. Some regulars have got to know each other too and hearing them chat away is lovely.

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What parts of your job do you enjoy the most?

I really enjoy meeting different people and having a chat with them. The positive feedback we get from our customers is always a plus!

I love working with all the students who I have got to know quite well over the last year working here.

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How do you support the young people who come to Murtle Market to learn new skills?

Some young people are supported by co-workers, while others work independently. I work alongside them, show them what I do, and if it’s something they can take on, they do it too.

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What sort of response have you had from the wider community?

We have had such positive feedback from the wider community. People love to see the new cafe and all the local produce grown at Murtle Gardens.

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What do you think makes it so special?

I think the fit out has been beautifully done with warm tones throughout. The lighting is unique and not too bright like other shops, so it feels cozy.

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What’s your go-to snack or drink from Murtle Market?

We stock a really refreshing drink called Brite which I love if I feel I need a bit of an energy boost. You also can’t beat a good bowl of soup on a Thursday!

My favourite sandwich would be the chorizo melt and the brie, carrot and ginger melt.

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Where would you love to see Murtle Market in the next few years?

In the next few years, I’d love to see Murtle Market become a go-to for organic, locally sourced fruit and veg. I’d like it to feel more like a local farmer’s market, and I think we’re moving in that direction.

I’d also like the café to offer a bigger menu over time. We’re just at the start of an exciting journey, and I’m excited to be part of it.

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When you’re not working, how do you enjoy spending your time?  

We have a black labrador called Una, so we love to go for walks with her and see her running around in the woods and swimming in the rivers and burns.

I also love going to see live music, be it in a small venue or on a larger scale at a festival.

I like cycling at my own leisurely pace, swimming and the odd run now and then too.