Suffolk New College and the New Wolsey Theatre are delighted to be working in partnership to deliver an Edexcel BTEC Level 3 course in Production Arts.
The new course will be available to students from September 2012 and will be based in the professional environment of the New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich. However, students will have access to the excellent facilities and support available at Suffolk New College. There are only a few colleges in the country that offer this course, the nearest being in Thurrock or Lincoln.
This unique collaboration is a response to the impending skills shortage that has been identified by the National Skills Academy and is designed to provide work-based learning and invaluable insight into working at a busy venue which presents theatre, dance, music, children's shows, youth theatre and the annual Fringe Festival.
The course will focus on technical theatre for those who are interested in:
- Stage Management
- Technical Stage
- Front of House
- Theatre Arts Management
Students will have the opportunity to gain real production experience by working with the New Wolsey Theatre and its partners as well as on the College's in-house shows, providing valuable opportunities for learning and future employment.
Amanda Winnick, Head of Creative Arts and Media at Suffolk New College said:
"The course was created due to the strong links between Suffolk New College and the New Wolsey Theatre and is a wonderful opportunity for the College and its students.
"The BTEC in Production Arts course will give students the unusual opportunity to learn in a real theatre environment, whilst providing them with a platform to progress onto a university course, an apprenticeship or a job in the industry."
The structure of the course allows students to specialise in the areas that interest them, such as stage lighting, sound or event management. Theoretical understanding of the Performing Arts business and its history is integrated into practical work and there is an emphasis on working as part of a group as well as developing individual skills and disciplines.
Sarah Holmes, the New Wolsey Theatre's Chief Executive said:
"The New Wolsey is proud to work with Suffolk New College to create an opportunity for young people to gain a vocational qualification which prepares them to work in the performing arts industry. Students will be able to tap into a wealth of experience across all departments and make informed choices about the direction they want their careers to take. It's a major commitment but one we are very excited about."
Anyone who is interested in finding out more about the course, or how to apply, should contact:
Jo King - Programme Leader in Performing Arts and Music
Tel: 01473 382567
Email:
To find out more about the New Wolsey Theatre, please visit: www.wolseytheatre.co.uk
The New Wolsey Theatre is a registered charity, financed through a range of different sources including grant aid from Arts Council England, Suffolk County Council and Ipswich Borough Council.