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    Applying for a creative apprenticeship

    Do you want to start a career in the creative industries? The creative industries cover a whole host of careers, and apprenticeships too. From craftspeople, to TV, film and radio and everything in between. Whether you're looking to learn practical skills, media processes or management techniques, an apprenticeship in the creative industries can give you the qualifications and experience you need to set you up with a career for life.

    Not ready to apply just yet? Browse live apprenticeship opportunities and find your future with our apprenticeship search tool.

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    Typical recruitment process for a creative apprenticeship

    Application processes vary as much as the creative industries do. However, most roles still follow the same application processs. Depending on the size of the organisation you're applying for you may encounter one or more of the following processes, but, it's great to be prepared for whatever may come your way!
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      CV, Applications, and Cover Letters

      Start your journey in the creative industries by crafting a compelling CV and cover letter, or filling out application questions. Highlight your goals, aspirations, and relevant work experience, emphasizing creative projects, internships, or coursework. Tailor your CV to the specific apprenticeship and ensure your cover letter conveys your passion and fit for the role. Pay attention to word count and have someone proofread your application to catch any mistakes. You can read more about how to write a CV here, or use our CV Builder tool to help you.
    2. 2

      Portfolio Demonstrations

      Your portfolio should showcase your best work and demonstrate your skills and creativity. Include a variety of projects that highlight your versatility and proficiency in different creative areas. Each piece should have a brief description explaining your role, tools used, and the outcome. Tailor your portfolio to the specific role you are applying for, such as graphic design or animation.
    3. 3

      Pre-interview Tasks

      Some creative companies may include pre-interview tasks to assess your skills and creativity. These can range from creating a piece of work based on a provided brief to completing an online assessment testing your creative thinking and problem-solving abilities. Prepare by practicing with similar briefs and ensuring you have a quiet workspace and necessary materials. Manage your time wisely to complete the task effectively.
    4. 4

      Interviews

      Interviews in the creative industries can be face-to-face, over the phone, or virtual, focusing on your portfolio, industry understanding, and problem-solving abilities. Be ready to discuss your work in detail, explaining your creative process and decisions. Review your portfolio thoroughly, practice common interview questions, and align your experiences and skills with the role. Be confident, articulate, and passionate during the interview.
    5. 5

      Assessment Centres and Psychometrics

      Assessment centres, sometimes referred to as workshops in more practical-baed creative roles like the theatre, typically involve group tasks, individual assignments, and interviews to further evaluate candidates. Activities might include brainstorming sessions, team projects, or solving creative problems under time constraints. In some cases, candidates may take part in practical tasks either individually or collaboratively. Additionally, some roles may involve work trial days, particularly for hands-on or craft-based positions. These assessments evaluate your teamwork, communication skills, and ability to handle pressure. Prepare by practicing collaborative creative projects, refining problem-solving skills, and demonstrating adaptability in practical settings.

    Dos and don'ts when applying for an apprenticeship in the creative industries 

    Dos

    • Include any creative work experience, such as internships, freelance projects, or volunteer work, to demonstrate your practical skills and dedication.
    • Mention any industry-specific knowledge, such as following influential artists or design blogs, to show you’re engaged and up-to-date with trends.
    • Select your best and most relevant work for your portfolio, including a variety of projects that showcase your versatility and skills. Provide brief descriptions for each piece to explain your role and the tools you used.

    Don'ts

    • Don’t use vague reasons for wanting the role; explain why you are specifically interested in the company and how their projects resonate with your creative goals.
    • Ensure your social media profiles and any online portfolios are professional and current, as employers often check online to assess your style and professionalism.
    • Don’t include every piece of work in your portolio; curate your portfolio to highlight the best and most relevant examples that showcase your skills and versatility.
    Sarah Waterman Headshot 100x100
    Sarah Waterman
    Apprenticeships and Work Experience Manager, Royal Bellet & Opera

    Make sure you read the job description thoroughly, so you know exactly what you are applying for. Then in your application make sure you consider the skills and attributes you have that would make you successful in the role you are applying for.

     

    A word from a current creative apprentice

    Research into the apprenticeship role you're looking at for is the key to creating an effective application. Take a look at our Day in the Life of a Design Apprentice video and explore the day-to-day responsibilities of an apprentice in the creative industries.

    What are creative industry apprenticeship employers looking for?

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      Portfolio

      A strong portfolio is crucial in the creative industries. Employers look for a well-curated selection of your best work that demonstrates your skills, creativity, and versatility. Include a variety of projects that showcase different styles, techniques, and mediums. Each piece should be accompanied by a brief description explaining your role, the tools and processes used, and the project's outcome. This not only highlights your technical abilities but also your understanding of the creative process and your ability to communicate your ideas effectively.
    2. 2

      Demonstration of Existing Skills

      Creative industry employers value candidates who can clearly demonstrate their existing skills. This can be through school projects, freelance work, or personal creative endeavors. Highlight any experience you have with industry-standard software, such as Adobe Creative Suite for designers or Final Cut Pro for video editors. Showcasing your proficiency with these tools can give you a competitive edge. Additionally, emphasise any relevant skills such as problem-solving, time management, and attention to detail, which are essential in creative roles.
    3. 3

      Curiosity

      Curiosity and a willingness to learn are highly valued in the creative industries. Employers look for individuals who stay updated with the latest trends, tools, and techniques. Mention any relevant podcasts, blogs, or online courses you follow to keep your skills sharp and your knowledge current. Demonstrating a proactive approach to learning and a passion for continuous improvement shows that you are engaged and eager to grow within the industry.
    4. 4

      Creative Understanding

      A deep understanding of creativity and the ability to think outside the box are key attributes in the creative industries. Employers seek candidates who can bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to their projects. Showcase your creative thinking by explaining how you approach problem-solving and generate new ideas. Provide examples of how you have applied creative solutions in your past work or projects, demonstrating your ability to push boundaries and deliver unique results.
    5. 5

      Collaboration and Communication

      While technical skills are important, the ability to collaborate and communicate effectively is equally crucial. Employers look for team players who can work well with others, take constructive feedback, and contribute to a positive working environment. Highlight any group projects or collaborative efforts you have been part of and how you contributed to the team's success. Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, are also essential, as they enable you to articulate your ideas clearly and persuasively.

    The top five skills creative industry employers are looking for

    Find out exactly what skills creative industry employers are looking for from their ideal candidate based on the number of job adverts that list them as required: 

    1. Communication
    2. Management
    3. Leadership 
    4. Innovation
    5. Customer Service
    Sarah Waterman Headshot 100x100
    Sarah Waterman
    Apprenticeships and Work Experience Manager, Royal Bellet & Opera

    We are not looking for applicants who are experts or hugely experienced already- that is what the apprenticeship is designed to give you- we are interested in enthusiastic, curious applicants who are ready to work hard, study hard and learn as much as they can whilst they are on the programme.

    A student looks at their laptop

    Explore apprenticeship industries

    Do you want to find out more about the creative industries, or even explore different sectors that offer apprenticeships? Take a look at our Industry Guides.

    Common interview questions to expect for creative apprentice positions

    To give you a head start, here are some of the questions that a creative industry employer might ask you at the first stage of the interview process:

    • What inspired you to apply for our creative apprenticeship programme, and how do you see this opportunity helping you achieve your career goals in the creative industry?
    • Reflecting on your research about our company and the creative industry, what trends or challenges do you anticipate facing during your apprenticeship, and how would you approach them?
    • Tell us about a project or piece of work where you had to use your creativity and problem-solving skills to overcome a significant obstacle. How did you approach the situation, and what was the outcome?
    • The apprenticeship involves working on long-term projects that require sustained creativity and focus. Can you provide an example of a long-term project you have completed, and how you stayed motivated and productive throughout?
    • Collaboration is key in the creative industry. Can you describe a time when you worked as part of a team on a creative project? What was your role, and how did you contribute to the team’s success?

    £ 38,621

    Average salary for creative managers in the UK

    5.12%

    Projected job growth for managers and directors in the creative industries over the next 5 years

    Read

    • Understanding Apprenticeships - A Student guide - Ben Rowland

    Listen

    • Creative Pep Talk
    • Getting ahead with apprenticeships

    Do

    • Portfolio creation
    • UK Creative Festival and Careers Fair
    Head shot of Esha, apprentice at C4
    Esha Bal, junior digital content producer apprentice at Channel 4

    The thing with video editing is that we all do things slightly differently so having lots of conversations during the apprenticeship and working collaboratively is how you learn from each other and pick up little hacks along the way. It’s a really friendly environment to work and learn in.

    Kath Geraghty Workforce Development Manager National Theatre
    Kath Geraghty Workforce Development Manager at National Theatre

    We’re not age or experience limited and we’re not looking for a certain type of person. Instead, we’re looking for people with the right attitude and aptitude and those passionate about the creative industries. There’s a real opportunity to build a hugely successful career for those with the drive and passion to go for it.

    An example cover letter for a creative apprenticeship

    I've always been captivated by the world of design and visual arts. What began as a love for drawing and creating digital artwork has grown into a deep passion for graphic design and visual communication. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to work in the creative industries, where I can combine my artistic skills with innovative technologies to create compelling visual experiences.

    While I have been studying graphic design at college, I have also taken on freelance projects to expand my practical experience. Working with local businesses, I have designed logos, promotional materials, and social media graphics. These projects have honed my ability to understand client needs, work to tight deadlines, and deliver high-quality designs that effectively communicate their brand message.

    In addition to my freelance work, I have been actively involved in my college’s art club, where I collaborate with other students on various creative projects and exhibitions. This experience has enhanced my teamwork and communication skills, allowing me to contribute ideas and support my peers in bringing collective visions to life. I am eager to bring this collaborative spirit and my passion for design to your apprenticeship programme.

    • Passion for Design: The applicant clearly articulates a long-term interest in the creative field, highlighting a progression from personal hobbies to a professional aspiration in graphic design and visual communication.
    • Relevant Practical Experience: By detailing freelance projects, the applicant shows practical experience in the industry. This includes working with clients, meeting deadlines, and producing high-quality work, which are crucial skills for a creative role.

    • Collaborative Skills: The mention of involvement in the college’s art club demonstrates the ability to work well in a team, collaborate on projects, and contribute to group success, which are valuable traits in any creative industry setting.
    • Demonstrated Initiative: The applicant’s proactive approach to taking on freelance work and participating in extracurricular activities indicates a strong commitment to self-improvement and a genuine drive to expand their skills and knowledge in the creative sector.