What's it all about?
The arts world covers everything from film to fashion, music to computer gaming. While it's the artists and actors, musicians and models who take centre stage, they wouldn't be there without armies of assistants and teams of technicians - just take a look at the number of crew members listed in the credits next time you watch a film.
The creative industries are very popular, with lots of competition for job roles. It's not easy to walk into your dream job in TV or the fashion industry, so an Apprenticeship can be a great way to get a foot in the door.
Creativity takes on many forms, and likewise, the creative industry encompasses a broad array of jobs requiring different practices, talents and skills. The Apprenticeships in this section sample a good portion of that range. If you're technically creative, then you could be a games tester searching for glitches in new computer games or help rig the lighting for a playhouse. Like working with your hands? Then you could learn how to build sets and stages for film productions, or how to work the machines that manufacture clothing.
There's also a strong administrative side to this industry, so you could find yourself contributing to the office of a busy record label, helping to promote a live event, or organising member information for a theatre. You could even take on a more socially-engaged role by working for a community arts programme.
You'll find most opportunities in London and larger cities, but there are openings for creative types in most places. Imagination and a flair for English, art, music or a similar creative subject can help you succeed in the creative industries. But this is also a sector where passion and hard work will get you far.
Don't expect the red carpet treatment right away - long, antisocial hours are not unusual, and the pay is often not great for junior staff. But the work is fun and fulfilling, and you'll be working with interesting and creative people.
- Apparel (Contact www.skillfast-uk.org)
- Creative apprenticeships (Contact www.ccskills.org.uk)
- Design (Contact www.ccskills.org.uk)
- Footwear (Contact www.skillfast-uk.org)
- Games testing (Contact www.skillset.org)
- Leathergoods (Contact www.skillfast-uk.org)
- Photo imaging for staff photographers (Contact www.skillset.org)
- Set crafts (Contact www.skillset.org)