At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our backstage team and learn the ropes of theatre production.
- Company: The Royal Ballet and Opera is a leading venue for live performances and digital content.
- Benefits: Earn a competitive salary, with college fees covered and a pay increase after your first year.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in a creative environment and kickstart your career in the arts.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, no prior university degree required, and a passion for learning.
- Other info: Diversity is key; we encourage applications from under-represented groups.
Backstage Technician Apprenticeships – Covent Garden
Apprenticeship Scheme, Fixed term contract (2 years)
Starting September 2025
Salary: £25,282.40 for 42.5 hours per week
Based in: Covent Garden, London
The Royal Ballet and Opera continues to lead the way in opera, ballet, music and dance both live on stage and through multiple digital platforms, from live streaming to worldwide cinema screenings.
We are one of the busiest theatres in the world, delivering more than 400 performances each year and our backstage teams are some of the best theatre craftspeople in the world.
We want to encourage fresh, passionate new talent into the building and our apprenticeship scheme plays a big part in that!
An apprenticeship gives you the practical skills and knowledge that will underpin your professional development and access to a network of people who can guide and support you during your career.
What our apprentices say:
\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\”It has taught me invaluable on-the-job experience that textbook learning cannot provide.\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\”
\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\”It is a great pathway into a career and a unique alternative to university.\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\”
This year we are offering two pathways into backstage production; one is the Creative Venue Technician pathway (three vacancies) and the other is our new Flys and Automation Technician pathway.The roles are on a fixed-term contract for 2 years, full-time (42.5 hours per week) and based at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden.
Candidates recruited into this programme will be screened into the roles based on their experience and aptitude demonstrated in application and during interviews.
The apprenticeship will be split between the RBO and Creative Alliance College. You will study for a Level 3 Creative Venue Technician Apprenticeship Standard / Scenic Automation Technician Apprenticeship Standard.
Will I be paid?
Yes! You will earn National Living Wage which will increase by 2.5% after successfully completing the first year. Apprentices are expected to use this to pay for their own travel to work and college. College fees will also be paid by the Royal Ballet and Opera.
Am I eligible?
- You must be 18 years old or over on the start date
- Not have completed a university degree or equivalent level qualification in the UK or elsewhere
- Have work authorisation for the UK
Do I need previous experience?
We are interested in recruiting apprentices that are first and foremost curious, driven by working in a creative environment and keen to learn new skills!
How to apply:
To apply, please scroll to the bottom of the page and click on `Apply Now`. A full Job Pack is available below to download, as well as some handy guidance for submitting your application.
The Royal Ballet and Opera is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment in which everyone can thrive. We particularly welcome applications from those who are from a global majority background and/or those who are disabled, as they are under-represented within our organisation. As a Disability Confident Employer, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential minimum criteria for our vacancies.
If you have any questions, please contact the HR Department via . You can also contact us if you have any access needs for making an application.
For further information, you can also take a look at the Apprenticeship page on our website here:
Closing date for applications: 9am, Monday 31st March 2025.
The interview schedule can be found in the pack.
Backstage Technician Apprenticeships - Covent Garden employer: ROYAL BALLET AND OPERA
Contact Detail:
ROYAL BALLET AND OPERA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Backstage Technician Apprenticeships - Covent Garden
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the Royal Ballet and Opera's productions. Understanding their style and the types of performances they host will help you demonstrate your passion and knowledge during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former apprentices and backstage technicians. They can provide insights into the apprenticeship experience and may even offer tips on how to stand out in your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your curiosity and eagerness to learn. During interviews, emphasize your willingness to take on new challenges and your enthusiasm for working in a creative environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare questions to ask during your interview. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand more about the apprenticeship and the team you'll be working with.
We think you need these skills to ace Backstage Technician Apprenticeships - Covent Garden
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Backstage Technician Apprenticeships. Understand the skills and qualities they are looking for, especially the emphasis on curiosity and a passion for working in a creative environment.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights any relevant experience or skills that align with the apprenticeship. Even if you don't have direct experience, showcase your enthusiasm for learning and any related activities or projects you've been involved in.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that expresses your passion for the arts and your eagerness to learn. Mention why you are interested in the specific pathways (Creative Venue Technician or Flys and Automation Technician) and how you can contribute to the Royal Ballet and Opera.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you follow the application instructions carefully. Click on 'Apply Now' at the bottom of the page and make sure to submit all required documents before the closing date of 9am, Monday 31st March 2025.
How to prepare for a job interview at ROYAL BALLET AND OPERA
✨Show Your Passion for the Arts
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working in a creative environment. Talk about your love for theatre, ballet, or opera, and how it drives you to pursue this apprenticeship.
✨Demonstrate Curiosity and Willingness to Learn
Since the role is aimed at those eager to learn new skills, be prepared to discuss what you hope to gain from the apprenticeship. Share examples of how you've pursued knowledge in the past.
✨Highlight Relevant Experiences
Even if you don't have formal experience, think about any relevant projects or volunteer work you've done. Discuss how these experiences have prepared you for a role in backstage production.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask the interviewers about the apprenticeship program and the Royal Opera House. This shows your interest and helps you understand more about the role and the organization.