The Royal Opera House (ROH) has launched its apprenticeship programme for 2022-23, the Covent Garden-based house has announced.

There are nine positions available across several ROH departments, all offering high-quality training and two years of paid employment at one of London’s leading theatres. The roles are: theatre technician (two places); lighting technician; costume making; costume making (tailoring); scenic metalwork; scenic art; archivist; and marketing.

Predominantly based in the technical and production teams, the new positions will provide early career opportunities and training for those looking to move into the arts. The nine new apprentices will join the Royal Opera House’s current cohort of 10. They will receive invaluable on-the-job experience in the technical, lighting, costume, scenic metalwork, scenic art, marketing and collections departments, working with some of the best practitioners within the performing arts in the UK.

Applications are open now, with the final deadline for submission at 9am on 7 June 2022. All applicants must be over 18 years of age, have authorisation to work in the UK and not hold a degree-level (or equivalent) qualification. No other specific qualifications are necessary. All apprentices must spend 20% of their employed hours taking part in off-the-job training. These are all paid positions, with apprentices receiving the National Living Wage.

Sarah Waterman, the Royal Opera House’s apprenticeships and work experience manager, commented: “We are really excited to be able to support another cohort of ROH apprentices. The apprentices are such an important part of the Royal Opera House team, as new talent and fresh enthusiasm helps us ensure that ROH can continue to create world-class opera and ballet performances and stay at the cutting edge of the industry.”

ROH has trained 76 entry-level apprentices since its sector-leading scheme began in 2007, providing high-quality vocational training for those without a degree-level (or equivalent) qualification.

Apprentices gain a relevant industry qualification and are guided by some of the most accomplished and recognised practitioners in the UK’s arts industry, graduating equipped with transferable skills and a fantastic breadth of experience under their belts.

Almost 90% of all ROH apprentices remain within the arts once they have completed their apprenticeship, and many return to the Royal Opera House to continue their careers.

Alison Boateng, social media apprentice, said: “Applying for this apprenticeship was one of the best decisions I have ever made. My work in the communications team has pushed me to achieve my full potential, giving me opportunities to learn and grow in a busy theatre setting, try my hand at producing creative content for our social media team, and take my first steps in the industry. I had always wanted to work in the arts, and am so glad that my dream has become a reality.”

Lauren Taylor, flys and automation apprentice, added: “Becoming an apprentice at the Royal Opera House was the best decision I have ever made. The experiences I’ve had, and people I have met, have helped shape who I am now.

“I’ve learnt so much about the industry while being here and through the placement opportunities I have been given. The building is always evolving – especially from an engineering and technical point of view – which means I get to work with the latest and best equipment, and help put on a really wide range of shows.”

A series of short case study videos by current and past apprentices about their experiences of working at the Royal Opera House is available to watch on ROH’s YouTube channel.

 

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Daisy Seaman works as an apprentice creative venue technician at the Royal Opera House; applications for nine new apprenticeships are open now (Sim Canetty-Clarke).