Apprentice Prop Maker

Salary: £27,352 per year
Contact email: apprenticeshipenquiries@nationaltheatre.org.uk
Published: 8 months ago
Expiry date: 03 Jun 2024 10:00

We have an exciting opportunity for an Apprentice Prop Maker to join the National Theatre Workshops Team on a 24 Month Fixed Term Contract.

PLEASE DO NOT USE THE 'APPLY NOW' BUTTON. TO APPLY, PLEASE FOLLOW THIS LINK: Apprentice Prop Maker - Find an apprenticeship (findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk)

Under the direction of National Theatre staff, make, repair, and refurbish a wide range of furniture props, as well as learning a wider set of prop making skills. Working from designs, drawings, and models with instructions from Designers, Production Managers, Workshop Supervisors you will become a skilled prop maker.

What you will do in your working day
  • Attend dress rehearsals of shows that you have worked on.

  • Work to agreed deadlines, consulting at all times with the Props Workshop Manager.

  • Work on stage when required, installing, and repairing props and set dressing. 

  • Participate in safety checks, and weekly planning meetings

  • Maintain high standards of operations and good housekeeping in the workshop.

  • Participate in the provision of a safe working environment, acting within the company’s Health & Safety policy at all times.

  • Participate in other training as necessary and appropriate, including visiting other workplaces on placement.

  • Carry out any other reasonable duties as requested by the Props Workshop Manager

The training you will be getting

During your apprenticeship programme you will receive training both off and on the job. You will learn the underpinning knowledge that runs alongside your practical elements of the training to gain a Standard Level 2 in Furniture Manufacturing qualification. You will use a wide range of techniques whilst you complete a practical project.

WEBS Training aim to build on the skills you already have so you reach your full potential both personally and professionally.

Training will be provided in all areas of Furniture Manufacturing to ensure you are capable carrying out your role using traditional and modern techniques to produce aesthetically pleasing and fit for purpose products. You will be required to attend block training every 10 weeks at WEBS Training Nottingham, travel and accommodation costs for block are covered by the employer. 

If you have already achieved GCSE Maths and English at Grade 4 or above or have equivalent qualification you will be exempt from undertaking Functional Skills, however English and Maths support will be provided for all apprentices throughout the length of their programme.

What to expect at the end of your apprenticeship

The Prop Maker apprenticeship is designed to be the first step in working in theatre or going on to further study. Although we cannot guarantee that this apprenticeship will lead to a permanent post, this is an area of specialisation where there is a skills gap in the theatre sector, and we would expect there to be good opportunities for further work in the sector on completion of the apprenticeship. 

Desired skills and personal qualities

Communication skills, Attention to detail, Problem solving skills, Presentation skills, Team working, Creative, Non judgemental

Qualifications

GCSE or equivalent English (Grade C/4) Desired
GCSE or equivalent Math (Grade C/4) Desired

Things to consider

This is a Level 2 apprenticeship, therefore applicants must be suitable for study at this level and NOT hold a degree, HND, or a post graduate qualification, or have experience of working backstage in professional theatre. • To work at height and sometimes in small spaces, training will be given to you before you do this. What skills or experience are we looking for in a Prop Making Apprentice? We are looking for someone who: • Can show that they enjoy making things. • Can follow written spoken and visual instructions. • Is curious about the world, and keen to learn new things. • Is able to work well within a team and communicate clearly. • Is able to work effectively under supervision and be self-motivated to work on your own initiative. • Has a helpful, positive and flexible approach and attitude, whether the work is routine or exciting. • Is punctual and good at managing their own workload You must be able to stay away from home for 1 weeks block training in Nottingham every 10 weeks.

Closing Date: Monday 3rd June 2024 at 10:00am.

Link to apply: Apprentice Prop Maker - Find an apprenticeship (findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk)