Creative Pathways: SEN Work Experience

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 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.

Who is the programme for?
This programme is designed for young people aged 16 – 24 who identify as having a learning disability.

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.

We will discuss with all participants their access requirements to ensure that the programme suitable for them and that we can support them fully throughout the scheme and make any reasonable adjustments. We are not able to provide dedicated 1-1 support for participants on this programme.

How to get involved?
Applications for the 2025–2026 programme are now closed. Please check back in September 2026 for info on how to apply for the next cohort.

For more information, please get in touch with Roisin Omata 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.