Scenic construction technician
Level 3 · AdvancedCreative and design 2.5 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
A Scenic Construction Technician builds the sets, structures, and scenic elements that form the physical world of theatre, film, television, and live events. Apprentices work in scenic workshops and on stage, using woodworking, metalwork, and composite construction skills to bring designers' visions to life. This level 3 qualification leads to senior scenic carpenter or head of construction roles in the creative industries.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Scenic construction materials - timber, steel, MDF, and composites
Woodworking and joinery techniques for theatrical set construction
Basic metalwork including welding, cutting, and forming
Reading and working from technical drawings and scenic models
Structural principles and load-bearing requirements for scenic elements
Workshop and on-site health and safety for scenic construction
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Build flats, rostra, staircases, and scenic structures from drawings
Use hand and power tools including saws, routers, and drills
Carry out basic metalwork and fabrication tasks
Transport and fit up scenic elements on stage within production schedules
Work to tolerances and specifications from the designer and construction manager
Maintain a clean and safe workshop environment
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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