A new development programme aims to give young creatives from across Birmingham a unique introduction to working in the city’s creative industries.
Pioneering programme for young creatives
Based in the Custard Factory in Digbeth, Creative Alliance is a leading training provider in the Midlands culture and creative sector.
Their new pioneering Foot in the Door programme will provide 60 young people, aged between 16 and 23 years, the opportunity to improve their skills and employability, as well as providing work experience placement’s with some of the city’s top creative organisations.
The programme is delivered in partnership with some of the most respected names in Birmingham’s cultural sector: Bareface, Beatfreeks, Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Birmingham Royal Ballet, Blue Whale Training, City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, DanceXchange, Desi Blitz, mac Birmingham and The Old Rep.
Who can apply?
Anyone aged 16-23 with a love of the arts and creativity can apply.
No qualifications are necessary, just a love all things creative and a commitment to taking part.
All courses are evenings, weekends and school holidays.
The programme is particularly aimed at young creatives who may feel they are not open to such opportunities or capable of a future in the creative industries: maybe you feel under qualified, not good enough, inexperienced, held back by a disability or mental health issue?
The scheme is FREE to all and a fantastic opportunity, so consider giving it a try, there’s nothing to lose!
Success story
One of the programme’s Ambassadors is Jodie Mason, 23, from Bournville (right).
Jodie left school at 16, choosing a non-academic path, and after suffering mental health issues, had doubts she would make much of her creative abilities.
Jodie said: “I left school and chose not to go to sixth form or college and went and did Camp America. […] at 21 – after suffering with horrendous mental health problems – I began a 7 week voluntary training programme with the BBC. I then went on to doing an apprenticeship with Creative Alliance in Digital Marketing.
“I have been promoted 3 times since being with Creative Alliance, up to my current job as marketing and project coordinator for 10 renowned arts and cultural organisations. If it wasn’t for Creative Alliance I would never have got as far as I have now.”
Find out more & apply!
Website and application form: creativealliance.org.uk/fitdbrum
Book a FREE place to find out more at Birmingham REP Thursday 27th, Friday 28th April or Thursday 4th, Friday 5th April: https://fitdbrum.eventbrite.co.uk
‘Nominate a mate’: if you think somebody should have a go but wouldn’t have the courage to apply themselves, see here: http://creativealliance.org.uk/fitd-nominate-mate/
Social media: Foot in the Door on Facebook and @fitd_brum on Twitter