Trainee Set Dresser & Prop Maker

Trainee Set Dresser & Prop Maker

Bristol Internship No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join our Art Department to create stunning sets and props for stop-motion productions.
  • Company: Aardman Animations is a multi-award-winning studio known for its charming and innovative content.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, a creative environment, and the chance to learn from industry experts.
  • Why this job: Be part of a legendary team that shapes beloved animations and fosters a diverse, inclusive culture.
  • Qualifications: Recent graduates with a relevant degree or equivalent experience; creativity and attention to detail are key.
  • Other info: This is a fixed-term contract with potential for extension; applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Contract: Fixed Term Contract (Initially 3 months in length with potential to extend)

Salary: Depending on experience

The Role: We have an exciting opportunity for a Trainee Set Dresser & Prop Maker to join our Art Department at Aardman Animations. The Art department is the team responsible for creating the overall look of a stop-motion production, as determined by the Director, Production Designer and Art Directors. The Art team design, build, and dress the sets on which the puppets are shot, being mindful of every detail that can support the director's vision.

You will be training within our lively art team to produce props and sets to a high standard. You’ll also be assisting more senior team members in set dressing as well as making adjustments based on consultation with other creative departments.

About Us: Aardman is an independent and multi-Academy Award and BAFTA award winning studio. It produces feature films, series, advertising, games and interactive entertainment. Its productions are global in appeal, novel, entertaining, brilliantly characterised and full of charm reflecting the unique talent, energy and personal commitment of the Aardman team. The studio’s work is often imitated, and yet the company continues to lead the field producing a rare brand of visually stunning content for cinema, broadcasters, digital platforms and live experiences around the world.

In November 2018, Aardman became an Employee Owned organisation, ensuring that the studio remains independent and securing the creative legacy and culture of the company for the future. Our Diversity & Inclusion Charter is our commitment to building a workforce that is truly reflective of society, underpinned by the belief that a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential in delivering on our mission: to create entertainment for all and to be the most inspirational animation company in the world. We welcome applications from all individuals and are always happy to discuss flexible working needs. We’ve signed the Age-friendly Employer Pledge, a nationwide programme run by the Centre for Ageing Better to make workplaces age-friendly, and Aardman is also proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and a Living Wage Employer.

Required skills About You: The Candidate: The Trainee position requires applicants to have recently graduated from a relevant BA or other related course with less than 1 years’ work experience or equivalent industry experience or training. The successful candidate will be creative with a keen eye for colour, texture, decoration and detail. You will be enthusiastic with an intuitive and creative approach to problem solving, plus able to follow a brief and take instruction.

We will be reviewing applications for interview as they’re submitted. Closing Date for applications is Tuesday 1st July 2025.

Trainee Set Dresser & Prop Maker employer: Aardman Animations, Ltd.

Aardman Animations is an exceptional employer, renowned for its vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration. As a proud Employee Owned organisation, we offer our team members the opportunity to contribute to award-winning productions while enjoying flexible working arrangements and a commitment to diversity. With a focus on employee growth and development, Aardman provides a unique environment where your passion for animation can flourish, making it an ideal place for aspiring artists to build their careers.
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Contact Detail:

Aardman Animations, Ltd. Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Trainee Set Dresser & Prop Maker

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with Aardman's unique style and previous works. Understanding their aesthetic will help you align your creative ideas with their vision, making you a more appealing candidate.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the animation industry, especially those who have experience in set dressing and prop making. Attend industry events or workshops to make connections that could lead to valuable insights or recommendations.

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your creativity through a portfolio that highlights your best work related to set design and prop making. Include projects that demonstrate your attention to detail and ability to follow a brief.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare for potential interviews by practising how to discuss your creative process and problem-solving skills. Be ready to share examples of how you've tackled challenges in past projects, as this will show your enthusiasm and capability.

We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Set Dresser & Prop Maker

Creativity
Attention to Detail
Understanding of Colour Theory
Knowledge of Textures and Materials
Problem-Solving Skills
Ability to Follow Instructions
Teamwork and Collaboration
Basic Prop Making Skills
Set Dressing Techniques
Adaptability
Communication Skills
Time Management
Artistic Vision
Basic Knowledge of Art and Design Principles

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Trainee Set Dresser & Prop Maker. Familiarise yourself with the art department's role in stop-motion production and how it contributes to the overall vision of the project.

Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with the job description. Emphasise any creative projects, coursework, or internships that showcase your eye for detail, colour, and texture.

Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and Aardman's mission. Mention specific reasons why you want to work with them and how your background makes you a suitable candidate for this position.

Showcase Your Creativity: If possible, include a portfolio or examples of your work that demonstrate your creativity and problem-solving skills. This could be anything from set designs, prop creations, or other artistic projects that reflect your style and capabilities.

How to prepare for a job interview at Aardman Animations, Ltd.

✨Show Your Creativity

As a Trainee Set Dresser & Prop Maker, creativity is key. Bring along a portfolio showcasing your previous work or any relevant projects. This will help demonstrate your artistic skills and your understanding of colour, texture, and decoration.

✨Understand Aardman's Vision

Familiarise yourself with Aardman's productions and their unique style. Being able to discuss specific projects and how you can contribute to their creative vision will impress the interviewers and show your genuine interest in the company.

✨Prepare for Practical Questions

Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and how you handle feedback. Think of examples from your studies or past experiences where you successfully followed a brief or adapted your work based on constructive criticism.

✨Demonstrate Team Spirit

Since you'll be working closely with a lively art team, highlight your ability to collaborate and communicate effectively. Share experiences where you've worked as part of a team, especially in creative settings, to show you're a good fit for their culture.

Trainee Set Dresser & Prop Maker
Aardman Animations, Ltd.
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