Solihull College & University Centre and the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) have worked together effectively for several years, with the organisations collaborating on several projects including Venue Technician Bootcamps and a series of apprenticeships.
The RSC is a globally renowned organisation within the arts industry and is dedicated to learning and development. The venue technician bootcamp afforded students the opportunity to learn from industry experts and experience the role of a technician within this world class venue.
Through apprenticeships, the RSC offers a range of accessible opportunities for people starting their career within the theatre industry. The College supports apprentices studying costume design, lighting, and events, showcasing the varied career options within the organisation.
Demonstrating their commitment to learning and development, Events Assistant Apprentice, Aine Brown, organised an apprenticeship event for National Apprenticeship Week, with the support of her College tutor. With the Department for Education in attendance, and Jacqui O’Hanlon, RSC’s Director of Creative Learning and Education delivering the keynote speech, the event was a success and highlighted the career opportunities apprenticeships offer through the voices of apprentices and employers.
Aine was also recently shortlisted for the apprentice ‘Above and Beyond’ award at the College’s Apprenticeship Impact Awards. A demonstration of her hard work and commitment throughout her apprenticeship and backing of her employer.
The support and opportunities the Royal Shakespeare Company provide to apprentices is evident and not only do they receive on the job training and support from their departments, but Kieran Corrigan, Apprenticeship Programme Manager, oversees their overall learning and development within the organisation.
On learning and progression opportunities, Kieran comments: “We are able to give apprentices lots of different options. So, if they know that they want to be really specific and stay in one area, then we’ll tailor their training to that.
Where we’ve had apprentices that start in one area, but develop through their apprenticeship and realise the next step is in a slightly different area, our managers have been incredible at facilitating that.”
The apprentices appreciate the support provided to them. Aine commented: “There are so many pathways you can take with an events apprenticeship, and my employer has been really supportive in my development and exploring different ways in which I can work in this sector.”
The relationship between RSC and the College is a strong and ever evolving one, Kieran comments: “Working with Stratford-upon-Avon College has been a real asset to our apprenticeship programme at the RSC. Their team understands the unique nature of the theatre industry and goes above and beyond to support both the employer and the apprentice.”
For more of an insight into the relationship with the Royal Shakespeare Company, take a look at the College’s ‘Employer Insights’ series of videos on social media.
For more information on how the College can support your organisation, please speak with our experienced Employer Services team on 0121 678 7181 or email employerservices@solihull.ac.uk
