At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as a Theatre Technician Apprentice and learn backstage skills in Lighting, Sound, Stage & Props, and Automation.
- Company: The Royal Shakespeare Company is a leading theatre organisation known for creativity and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Enjoy 20% training time, a dedicated mentor, and opportunities to shadow other departments.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in theatre while working towards a Level 3 qualification in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, have an interest in theatre, and not hold a degree or extensive backstage experience.
- Other info: This is a full-time, fixed-term role for 2 years, with flexible hours including evenings and weekends.
Do you have an interest in theatre and how shows are created backstage? Are you looking for a job that allows you to learn new skills and gain a qualification? Can you work flexibly in a busy team? Do you have good communication skills? We are delighted to offer the opportunity for a Theatre Technician Apprentice to join the RSC's highly experienced technical team, developing hands-on skills across four key backstage areas: Lighting, Sound, Stage & Props, and Automation in Stratford-upon-Avon. This is a fantastic, developmental opportunity for someone who is looking to gain experience in how shows are created backstage.
An RSC apprenticeship provides an alternative and supportive way of accessing a career in theatre. This scheme will focus on the development of technical skills through a mix of work-based learning and coursework, allowing you to develop your practical skills and realise your potential. As part of this 2-year apprentice programme you will work towards the successful completion of a Level 3 Creative Venue Technician apprenticeship.
What will I be doing?
As a Theatre Technician Apprentice, you will develop hands-on skills across four key backstage areas: Lighting, Sound, Stage & Props, and Automation. You will spend time training and working in each of these departments, building core technical knowledge and experience before choosing one area to specialise in for the final six months.
Eligibility criteria for this role:
- Applicants must not hold a degree, HND, or a postgraduate qualification and be eligible to study for a Level 3 apprenticeship.
- Applicants must not have extensive experience of working backstage in a professional theatre.
- You must have lived in the UK or in the European Economic Area (EEA) for the last 3 years as a resident of the UK for the entire duration of the programme.
- You will be required to undertake studying and assessments required to complete the apprenticeship. This may involve an end point assessment.
- An interest in theatre or live events.
- Self-motivated to acquire new skills and knowledge.
- Be 18 years old or over on the start date.
Whatβs in it for me?
- 20% dedicated training time, which is a combination of in-house training and training from an external supplier.
- A dedicated apprenticeship mentor who will tailor your learning experience.
- The opportunity to shadow other departments to expand your overall knowledge of theatre craft.
This is a full time, fixed term contract for the duration of the 2-year apprenticeship. Working hours will be 40 hours per week, 6 days per week, including evenings and weekends. You will be required to join off the job training one day a week with your training provider.
Application Process
All applications should be made online using the RSC website. If you need any assistance when applying, please email. The role will close at midnight Wednesday 16 July. An in-person assessment centre will take place on Friday 25 July, in Stratford upon Avon, for shortlisted candidates. (Please note this will be the only date available for the assessment centre).
About the RSC
The RSC strives for excellence, and values creativity, inclusivity, sustainability, collaboration, and accountability. We can offer great benefits and aim to create a welcoming, supportive environment which is happy, healthy and safe. We place great importance upon developing a diverse, highly motivated and energised workforce to help achieve our priorities. We put our values at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to building a diverse workforce and welcome applications from all individuals. We believe that safeguarding children and adults is everyone's responsibility, and everybody working at the RSC has a duty to place safeguarding at the heart of their work. We welcome candidates who will support and advocate the RSC's environmental objectives continuing to improve our sustainability work and actions both on and off stage.
Theatre Technician Apprentice employer: ROYAL SHAKESPEARE COMPANY
Contact Detail:
ROYAL SHAKESPEARE COMPANY Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Theatre Technician Apprentice
β¨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Royal Shakespeare Company's values and mission. Understanding their commitment to creativity, inclusivity, and sustainability will help you align your passion for theatre with their goals during any discussions or interviews.
β¨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former apprentices and technicians in the theatre industry. They can provide valuable insights into the role and the application process, as well as tips on how to stand out as a candidate.
β¨Tip Number 3
Prepare to demonstrate your interest in theatre by attending local performances or volunteering at events. This hands-on experience will not only enhance your understanding of backstage operations but also give you talking points for interviews.
β¨Tip Number 4
Be ready to discuss your flexibility and teamwork skills. Since the role requires working in a busy team environment, think of examples from past experiences where you've successfully collaborated with others or adapted to changing situations.
We think you need these skills to ace Theatre Technician Apprentice
Some tips for your application π«‘
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Theatre Technician Apprentice position. Understand the key responsibilities and the skills required, such as communication and flexibility in a busy team.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight any relevant experience or skills related to theatre or live events. Even if you don't have extensive backstage experience, showcase any transferable skills that demonstrate your interest and motivation to learn.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for theatre and your eagerness to develop technical skills. Mention specific areas of interest, like Lighting or Sound, and explain why you want to pursue this apprenticeship with the RSC.
Prepare for the Assessment Centre: If shortlisted, you'll attend an assessment centre. Prepare by researching common interview questions and thinking about how you can demonstrate your teamwork and communication skills during practical tasks.
How to prepare for a job interview at ROYAL SHAKESPEARE COMPANY
β¨Show Your Passion for Theatre
Make sure to express your genuine interest in theatre and live events during the interview. Share any experiences you've had, whether it's attending shows or participating in school productions, to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the craft.
β¨Highlight Your Teamwork Skills
Since this role involves working in a busy team, be prepared to discuss your ability to collaborate with others. Provide examples of past experiences where you successfully worked as part of a team, showcasing your communication skills and flexibility.
β¨Prepare Questions About the Role
Come equipped with thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship and the technical areas you'll be working in. This shows your eagerness to learn and helps you understand what to expect from the programme.
β¨Demonstrate Your Willingness to Learn
Emphasise your self-motivation and eagerness to acquire new skills. Discuss how you plan to approach the learning aspects of the apprenticeship and your commitment to completing the required assessments.