PLEASE NOTE: Please do not use the apply button on this webpage. To apply, please follow the attached link: https://www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk/apprenticeship/VAC1000322289
We have an exciting opportunity for a Scenic Carpentry Apprentice to join the National Theatre Workshops Team on a 24 Month Fixed Term Contract.
What is a Scenic Carpenter?
A scenic carpenter in the performing arts is responsible for creating all aspects of stage scenery, using timber and other materials, bringing to life a designer’s vision. This includes working from technical drawings to build scenic elements such walls, windows, doors, ceilings, and as well as items like large trees, kitchens, staircases etc.
Purpose of the Apprenticeship
The carpentry workshop is part of the Workshops department in the National Theatre realising the designers’ and directors’ visions. They contribute to this by making scenery for nearly all of the NT’s shows and projects. Working in a team of very experienced carpenters, the Apprentice Scenic Carpenter will learn core skills with a variety of materials alongside developing key transferable skills such as teamwork, communication and professionalism. As this is a training position, we are not looking for experience in carpentry, scenic construction, or of professional theatre, but for someone who has practical skills, which can be applied to this apprenticeship. You will need to show us that you enjoy working practically, can work well in a team and will be committed to becoming a professional scenic carpenter. While this experience is largely based in a creative industry, the skills learnt are transferable to many other career opportunities.
What you will do during the Apprenticeship
The apprenticeship will be split between the National Theatre and the New City College in Hackney. You will spend 1 day a week at the College and your remaining time will be spent at the National Theatre workshops learning the craft, key skills and working within the team on projects and productions.
At New City College:
- You will study for a Carpentry and Joinery Level 2 – Site Carpentry Apprenticeship.
- Time at college will be in 1 day a week in term time.
- You will be supported in passing functional skills in English and Maths if you need to take them.
At the NT you will:
- Manufacture scenery and other scenic elements for the NT’s productions and projects under the direction and support of the carpentry team.
- Adapt existing scenic elements and work in a sustainable manner.
- Use hand tools, power tools, and fixed machinery.
- Learn about the various types of materials used in scenic construction, as well as different techniques and their related materials.
- Learn how to interpret and work from technical drawings, designs, and models
- Work closely with the metal workshop in terms of the use and manufacture of components and mechanisms for scenery.
- Learn basic stage craft and the installation of scenery on stage (fit ups).
- Maintain good housekeeping and carry out basic machine maintenance.
- Gain a basic understanding of AutoCAD and CNC machine programming.
- Follow health & safety procedures at all times and partake in all necessary training.
- Engage in the Theatre Green Book and the NT’s commitment to sustainability.
- Take responsibility for being on time and to work professionally and considerately.
- Help with the promotion of the NT’s apprenticeship scheme by taking part in tours, helping at careers events, and meeting funders and other guests as requested.
- Comply with all NT’s policies and procedures.
- Take responsibility for completing your college work and making sure your line manager knows when a college assessor is visiting.
- Carry out any other reasonable duties as requested by your line manager - the Construction Workshop Manager - or the Head of Technical Qualifications.
By the End of the Apprenticeship you will know how to:
- Construct, adapt and repair scenery and scenic elements
- Use tools and machinery confidently
- Understand health & safety protocols in a busy workshop environment and onstage
- Read and work from technical drawings
- Understand stage craft and installing scenery on stage
- Work sustainably using the Theatre Green Book
This is a Level 2 apprenticeship; therefore, applicants must be suitable for study at that level and NOT hold a degree, HND, or a postgraduate qualification. They must not have extensive experience of working backstage in professional theatre or as a professional carpenter.
Download the Job Description here.
To apply, please follow:
https://www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk/apprenticeship/VAC1000322289
If you require assistance with applying or would like to apply using a different format, please contact info@ncclondon.ac.uk.
Closing date: Monday 16th June 2025 at 11:59pm.
Further queries: email info@ncclondon.ac.uk.
PLEASE NOTE: New City College are managing the recruitment of this apprentice, so please contact them if you have an questions regarding access to the application form.