Apprenticeship FAQs

• What is an apprenticeship?

  An apprenticeship is a real job with a salary that also gives you the chance to train and earn a qualification while you work. You'll learn skills through working alongside theatre professionals, with around 20% of your time spent learning at a college, university or other training provider. 

  Our apprenticeships are intended for people who want to take a work-based path into backstage theatre, offering the opportunity to gain Level 2 (equivalent to GCSE grade A*-C/9-4) and/or Level 3 qualifications (equivalent to an A Level). Depending on which department you are in, they can last from one to four years.

• What does it involve?

  During an RSC apprenticeship, you will work full time (30-40 hours per week, potentially involving shift work) with your department in Stratford-upon-Avon. Salary will vary by role and hours, but will not be less than National Living Wage and you will be entitled to 25 days holiday per year, excluding statutory holidays. 

  You will receive on-the-job training with the professional staff in your department and will also study towards your qualification, with all college and coursework time included in your contracted hours. Throughout this time you will be fully supported by your line manager at work, our Training and Development team, the college or learning provider and your mentor. We pay for all relevant training and training materials.

  At the end of the apprenticeship, you will have all the support, training and guidance you need to find work in the theatre industry, and can apply for relevant jobs with us if they become available.

• Our apprenticeships

  We offer apprenticeships in:

  • Customer Services
  • Venue Management
  • Scenic Carpentry
  • Scenic Engineering
  • Catering
  • Costume
  • Nursery
  • Prop making
  • Automation
  • Maintenance Engineering

• Am I eligible?

  The apprenticeships are for people aged over 16 and are particularly suited to non-graduates. You can be eligible if you have a Higher Education qualification, such as a degree, but it needs to be in a different field

  We encourage people from any background to apply for the apprenticeships. We are committed to creating a workforce which is representative of our society and to bringing together those with a variety of skills and experiences, to help share what we do and how we work.

  Please be aware that accommodation is not provided with this scheme. Apprentices are responsible for arranging their own travel and accommodation.

• How to apply

  • Apprenticeship opportunities are advertised via the current vacancies page on our website. Please sign up to receive vacancy alerts and we will send you an email as soon as a new apprenticeship opportunity is posted.
  • To apply for an apprenticeship, follow the online application process.
  • After the recruitment closing date, we will let you know whether or not you have been selected for interview.
  • Interviews take place in Stratford-upon-Avon. The interview could include a practical test, assessment day and a tour of the building.