Job Details

We do this by supporting emerging Welsh talent with life-changing learning experiences, professional workshops, and technical apprenticeships. We currently have technical apprentices based here at the centre (shared with the Welsh National Opera), but also at several partner organisations across Wales. We are excited to offer an apprenticeship that sits within our technical department, who are responsible for providing technical assistance on projects situated in our DGT Theatre, Weston Studio and other presenting stages.

Our current Technical Apprentices (Stage bias) have recently completed placements on visiting touring productions like Wicked and Hamiliton and have supported several self-produced shows such as Pontypool and The Nutcracker Cabaret for the WMC and The Marriage of Figaro and Peter Grimes with the WNO with the potential to go on tour later.

The main objective of this role is to develop specialised and transferable skills, from work-based learning opportunities in areas specific to live productions and projects for those at the start of their technical careers. This role focuses in areas relating to Stage Craft, Sound and Lighting practice – with opportunity to explore other department including Stage and Costume Management.

Much of the success of the Wales Millennium Centre, and its ability to attract repeat visits by national and international artists and companies, will depend on the quality and responsiveness of its technical services. WMC aims to be a venue-of-first choice for event and performance presenters.

The postholder should expect to complete coursework, assessments and training modules as part of their working day, to obtain their Level 3 qualification.

Those who have not obtained a C grade or above at GCSE for Math, English and IT will undertake various essential skills workshops to obtain an equivalent certification.

*Individuals with a degree (BA or MA) in a related subject (Technical or Performance Theatre, Set, Costume and AV Design and TV or Film Studies) and those residing outside of the South Wales area are not eligible to apply and will not be considered. *

Applications are open to those 16 years + (with preference to those between 18 and 30 years).

On a day-to-day basis you will report to the Apprentice and Training Coordinator, who oversees the apprentice programme to ensure that individuals hit their practical and assessment targets. The coordinator is also responsible for your professional training schedule which will include trips away from base.

Over the 12-months, you will have completed several professional training workshops and certifications such as the ABTT Bronze Award, PAT Testing and CRISP IOSH qualification to name a few. You may also attend a trade show in the Spring/Summer. Though subject to training schedules, successful applicants should expect to work on productions such as War Horse (National Theatre) and Mary Poppins (Disney).

At Wales Millennium Centre, our commitment to diversity and inclusion goes beyond words; it is a fundamental aspect that guides our actions. Adhering to the principles outlined in Section 158 of the Equality Act 2010, we actively embrace positive action in our recruitment and selection processes. Recognising the underrepresentation of specific groups, particularly individuals with disabilities, and those from Black, Asian, and ethnically diverse backgrounds, within our workforce, we have implemented proactive measures to address this disparity.

Through our positive action approach, applicants of our advertised roles from these underrepresented groups, meeting the minimum criteria detailed in the role profile, will be shortlisted for interview selection. Our commitment extends beyond meeting legal obligations; we aspire to cultivate a workplace that authentically embraces the rich diversity of our global society.

Applicants will need to be available to start on October 6th for Induction Week.

Applications must be available to attend an assessment day on the 29th July or 5th of August to be considered for interview.

The working hours of an apprentice slightly vary from week-to-week, it really depends on the demands of the production they are working on. We must highlight that this is not a 9-5 role, therefore we encourage applicants to really think hard about whether this type of work is suitable for them should this be of conflict. We also encourage you to think about your travelling arrangements and whether it is feasible/viable for you at this point.

The criteria in which you will be evaluated on is relatively fluid. However, we do expect you to provide evidence of your understanding of backstage technical theatre and what areas specifically is of interest to you and why. You will need to show that you are able to learn or display good interpersonal and communication skills, as you will be working within a large organisation with people from differing backgrounds, viewpoints, and identities.

Finally, you ought to display evidence of a good attitude and willingness towards professional working, learning new skills, and progression of coursework.