At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide excellent customer service and assist visitors in our beautiful shop.
- Company: Join the iconic Royal Ballet and Opera, a cultural landmark in London.
- Benefits: Earn a competitive salary while gaining valuable retail experience.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive apprenticeship with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant team and enhance visitor experiences at a world-class venue.
- Qualifications: Must be 17+ and eager to learn in a customer-focused environment.
The predicted salary is between 26436 - 26436 £ per year.
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. Our Covent Garden theatre has been at the heart of London and British cultural life for three centuries. We are home to two world-class Companies: The Royal Ballet and The Royal Opera.
The Retail Team are looking for a new Retail Assistant Apprentice. This Level 2 apprenticeship is perfect for someone who enjoys meeting new people and providing great customer service. If you’re friendly, confident and like helping visitors make their experience special — from selling programmes and souvenirs to answering questions — this role will suit you well. A great fit for someone who enjoys working in a customer-focused environment in our beautiful destination shop. This Apprenticeship is open for applicants aged 17.
Details:
- Apprenticeship Scheme, Fixed Term Contract (1 year)
- Starting September 2026
- Salary: £26,436.80 for 40hrs per week
- Based in: Covent Garden, London
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.
Role details and study:
The role is on a fixed-term contract for 1 year, full-time (40 hours per week) and based at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden. During the Apprenticeship you will work at RBO and study alongside with the College Training Provider, HIT Training. You will study for a Level 2 Retail Assistant Apprenticeship Standard.
Will I be paid?
Yes! You will earn National Living Wage. 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.
Eligibility:
- You must be 17 years old or over by 7th September 2026.
- You must have work authorisation for the UK.
- You must have been ordinarily resident in the United Kingdom for at least the past three consecutive years prior to the start of the programme.
- You must not have completed a degree or equivalent level qualification in the UK or elsewhere, regardless of subject.
- You must not have experience (over six months) of working full time in a retail/similar role as your skill level will be above the apprenticeship level.
How To Apply:
To apply, please click on Apply and answer the application questions outlining how your experience demonstrates the essential criteria in the job description. Download and read the Job Description, as well as the full Job Pack; it includes 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.
We are a Disability Confident Employer, which means that we are actively working to ensure that candidates with disabilities and long-term health conditions feel supported, engaged and able to fulfil their potential in the workplace.
If you have any questions, please contact the Apprenticeships Team. You can also contact us if you have any access needs for making an application.
Closing date for applications: 11:59pm, Sunday 7th June 2026.
The RBO is also committed to safeguarding and protecting all children, young people, and adults and we implement robust safer recruitment practices.
To ensure a fair process, late applications will not be considered under any circumstances.
Retail Assistant Apprentice in London employer: ROYAL BALLET AND OPERA
The Royal Ballet and Opera is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in the heart of London's cultural scene at Covent Garden. With a strong commitment to employee development through its apprenticeship scheme, the company fosters a supportive and inclusive work environment where new talent can thrive. Employees benefit from competitive pay, comprehensive training, and the chance to be part of a world-renowned institution that values creativity and collaboration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Retail Assistant Apprentice in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Royal Opera House! Familiarise yourself with their shows, history, and values. This will not only help you stand out in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your customer service skills! Role-play with friends or family to get comfortable with common scenarios you might face as a Retail Assistant. The more confident you are, the better you'll perform!
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or past apprentices on social media or at events. They can provide insider tips and maybe even help you get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! Make sure to answer all application questions thoughtfully, showcasing your passion for customer service and the arts. We want to see your personality shine through!
We think you need these skills to ace Retail Assistant Apprentice in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Pack:Before you dive into your application, make sure to download and read the Job Pack. It’s packed with useful info and guidance that’ll help you understand what we’re looking for in a candidate.
Show Your Passion:When answering the application questions, let your enthusiasm shine through! We want to see how your experiences relate to the role and why you’re excited about joining our team at the Royal Opera House.
Be Specific:Don’t just say you have great customer service skills; give us examples! Use specific situations from your past to demonstrate how you’ve made a difference in a customer-focused environment.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, you’ll find all the necessary details right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at ROYAL BALLET AND OPERA
✨Know Your Role
Before the interview, make sure you understand what a Retail Assistant Apprentice does. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities mentioned in the job description, like providing great customer service and helping visitors. This will help you answer questions confidently and show your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Showcase Your People Skills
Since this role is all about meeting new people and making their experience special, think of examples from your past where you've excelled in customer service. Whether it’s a part-time job or a volunteer position, be ready to share how you’ve positively interacted with customers.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship, the team, or the Royal Opera House itself. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you determine if it's the right fit for you.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Consider doing mock interviews with friends or family. Practising common interview questions can help you articulate your thoughts better and reduce nerves. Plus, it’s a great way to get feedback on your answers and body language!
