Creative Careers Pathways Programme is an empowering creative careers and employment programme for learning disabled young people aged 16 - 25, designed to open doors into the arts and creative industries.
What does the programme involve?
Starting with a four-month programme at artsdepot, participants take part in weekly workshops to uncover all areas of a professional arts venue — including technical production, front-of-house, programming, and participation. This immersive experience offers a broad understanding of how the creative sector operates, while building confidence, leadership, and employability skills.
During this time, participants will also work towards achieving a Bronze Arts Award qualification (equivalent to a Level 1 qualification on the Regulated Qualifications Framework) as recognition of their new skills and knowledge.
Professional work placement
Following the initial phase, participants are then offered the opportunity to take part in a bespoke placement with a creative business or organisation, carefully matched to their individual interests and strengths. These placements offer real-world experience and the chance to develop specialist skills in a supportive environment. Previous partner organisations have included Chickenshed Theatre, 2econd Chance, Apex, and DJMC Academy. Placements are for minimum 1 day per week for 10 weeks.
Who is the programme for?
This programme is designed for young people aged 16 – 25 who identify as having a learning disability and who have left statutory schooling.
Participants do not need to have any previous professional work experience to take part in this programme, nor any specialist creative skills. We ask that participants who apply for the programme are committed to the opportunity, passionate about an aspect of arts and culture, and interested in potentially pursuing a career in the creative industries (on or off stage).
We welcome applications from young people with SEN (with or without an EHCP) who are motivated to explore employment opportunities and creative careers. The programme is designed to support participants to build confidence, develop workplace skills and gain experience through a 10-week placement. We can make reasonable adjustments to accommodate different access needs and learning styles, and we aim to create an environment where all participants feel valued and able to succeed.
To get the most from the programme, participants should be able to travel independently to sessions and placements, engage in group activities, and manage their own day-to-day participation with the support and adjustments provided. Please note that we are unable to provide dedicated one-to-one support as part of this programme.
When will it happen?
Creative Pathways will take place in the middle of the Autumn term-from Nov 2026
How to get involved:
Please fill in this form to apply: artsdepot Creative Careers Pathway Programme 2026-2027 – Fill out form
For more information, please get in touch with Nina Graveney-Edwards via email on participation@artsdepot.co.uk or call 020 8369 5452.
Creative Pathways is part of artsdepot’s commitment to creating a more inclusive arts sector and supporting learning disabled young people to shape its future.
Supported by
Barnet Education & Learning Service
The Thomas Milo Foundation
