Taking the young talent of this nation and turning it into what we know will be the economic engine of this nation is the most important obligation we've got.
— Roy Clare CBE, Chief Executive, Museums, Libraries & Archives Council (MLA)
For too many talented young people, getting a start in the creative and cultural industries is not an option.
Part of the problem lies in the qualifications that are designed for these careers. The rising cost of degree courses means that the decision to study cannot be taken lightly. Especially when 73% of our employers say that graduates still lack the right skills or creative and entrepreneurial flair.
A culture of unpaid work experience dominates the creative and cultural industries. For employers, someone with relevant on-the-job experience is more valuable than an untested graduate. This discriminates against those who cannot afford to work for free and the impact is significant. Demographically, the sector is 95% white and 65% male. Here at Creative & Cultural Skills we are actively challenging this complacency and creating better choices for more people.
The Creative Apprenticeships is a brand new alternative route into the creative industries, one based on ability and potential rather than academic track record or social background and contacts.
It is a mix of on the job and off the job training where young people have the opportunity to acquire skills and knowledge and attain qualifications while doing so. These qualifications are designed and approved by industry. On-the-job learning is a significant component of the Creative Apprenticeship allowing young people to break the vicious circle of "no experience equals no job".
Launched officially in September 2008, the Creative Apprenticeships is the first industry approved and government funded apprenticeship framework for the creative and cultural industries.
http://www.ccskills.org.uk/Apprenticeships/CreativeApprenticeships/tabid/82/Default.aspx
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