Tag Archive: Chris Nicholls

1. Safety First – WL Prepares for Life Post Covid-19

   15 June 2020 09:10 Leave a Comment

   

   The past few months have seen the whole of the UK trapped underneath a cloud of uncertainty. Even now, as a company who works largely in events and theatre, we are still very unsure of what the future holds and when we’ll be able to return to some form of normality. One thing we are certain of though is that the world will be a very different place once we are through the other side of all this; one in which Health and Safety, as always, will play a prominent role. As a company, we have always been advocates for safe practices and, as such, have spent the last few weeks putting several measures in place to ensure both our methods and facilities are completely safe for our staff, clients and visitors.

   The safety measures put in place have been overseen by WL’s Health and Safety Director Chris Nicholls, who comments: “For us, the wellbeing of those visiting either our offices or warehouse space is a huge priority. We have used the Government Guidelines as a minimum requirement and are constantly monitoring information in order to respond immediately to changes in guidance, advice or legal requirements. Whilst we are all very keen to get back to work, we know we can only do this when we are completely confident that it is safe to do so”.

   WL’s response to ensuring the safety of its employees and customers has been structured around a series of newly-founded principles, core values and a management programme. Chris explains: “We’ve put in place a range of principles which will ensure the safety of all those working at WL and these will be immediately implemented for the foreseeable future. Whilst it does mean a big change to the way we work, we are refusing to take any risks and are ensuring we do everything we can to protect our staff’s health, safety and wellbeing. We’ve also ensured that we’ve been completely transparent throughout the whole process, addressing any concerns staff may have and addressing these in our plans”. 

   

   A lot of WL’s preparation to ensure a safe workplace is by making physical changes to the company’s Wimbledon base. These include:

   ·      Implementing social distancing measures and signage all throughout our SW19 offices and warehouse.
   ·      Implementing one way systems through potentially busy areas.
   ·      Designating most stairwells as either as up or down use only.
   ·      Implementing give way rules at pinch points and any two way areas.
   ·      Installing sanitiser dispensers at all entrances and ensuring that everybody washes or sanitises on arrival and before starting work.
   ·      Designated out of use and in use desks and workspaces in order to maintain social distancing.
   ·      Designated spaces in staff eating areas in order to maintain social distancing.
   ·      Ensuring that all meeting rooms are marked with maximum occupancy.
   ·      Producing a Return To Work survey for all of our staff to ensure any concerns/enquiries are met and addressed prior to their return.
   ·      The next step is to create a staff booklet in order to prepare those returning to work.
   ·      Delivering a socially distanced IOSH Working Safely course by Chris Nicholls. More of these will be delivered during the next two months in order to enable people to get ECS cards for construction site access.

   Chris concludes: “As always, we’re putting our staff, customers and visitors safety first here at WL; albeit in circumstances none of us were expecting. We now find ourselves living in a world where nothing can be taken for granted and must plan as we move forward and hopefully begin to start working again. All of our staff have taken on board the new procedures and working methods with great enthusiasm and we are now confident that, as we move into this new world, we are doing so as safely as possible”.

2. Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week at WL

   3 February 2020 13:49 Leave a Comment

   

   For almost a decade, WL has run an award-winning apprenticeship scheme in order to develop the next generation of industry talent. With today marking the start of National Apprenticeship Week, we’ve decided to take a look back at the scheme’s successes so far and how it has changed the lives of those who’ve taken part.  

   The WL Apprenticeship aims to nurture those embarking on a career in technical theatre. The apprenticeship is a Level 3 Creative Venue Technician course which is a combination of ‘on-site’ and ‘in-house’ training. Working alongside training provider the National College of Creative Industries, WL delivers specific training courses in order for those embarking on the apprenticeship to receive the necessary base skills and certification that is recognised and required in the industry. 

   The scheme is overseen by WL’s Health and Safety and Workforce Development Director Chris Nicholls, who comments: “The scheme has been tailored to ensure it offers everything those wanting a technical career in the industry require. Whether it’s the preparation and maintenance of AV and lighting equipment, first-hand experience of working at some of London’s most prolific venues, along with training across all departments here at WL, they will receive a wide range of opportunities and skillsets that aren’t available elsewhere”. 

   

   As part of its commitment to developing the practical skills of its apprentices, WL works closely with its industry partners to offer exclusive on-site placements. The previous cohort worked at venues such as the Roundhouse, Coliseum and Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch. Christine Piper, Head of Production at Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, comments: “For the last couple of years, we’ve worked with WL to help facilitate their apprenticeship scheme, with the timing of the work placement coinciding with the rehearsal and tech period of our annual pantomime. This gives the apprentice an excellent opportunity to work on a show from the start of rehearsals to the opening. We get an extra pair of hands and they gain some vital experience”. 

   Every WL apprentice also works on the annual VAULT Festival, where they take part in the technical installation. Andy George, Head of Production at VAULT Festival, comments: “We love working with the apprentices. It’s an opportunity for us to pass on the exciting learning opportunity that the Festival is to people who really thrive and benefit from it. The apprentices form the core of the lighting crew we work with and without their passion, energy and support, the Festival wouldn’t be what it is”. 

   Last October, WL took on its latest batch of apprentices: George Ploog, Azaldean Mohammed, Charlie Russell-Teare and Jack Bass. It also widened its offering by creating two Business Administration Apprenticeships, which were awarded to Ellie Richards and Aalya Royal. These new apprenticeships give each candidate the opportunity to work in an office-based role and develop their skills as part of the Business Support and Marketing teams.    

   Since WL’s initial intake of four apprentices in 2011, the company has overseen 57 apprenticeships; with all of those who completed the course going on to work in the industry. Many are still employed by the company in various roles, including Dan Goodwin who was part of the first ever intake. In total, 8% of the company’s current workforce is made up of previous apprentices. 

   

   The past twelve months have been particularly significant for WL’s Apprenticeship scheme. At last year’s CC Skills Awards, the company was named Apprentice Employer of the Year whereas at the Merton Best Business Awards, Dominic Devereux (of the 2017 cohort) won Apprentice of the Year. These join the company’s previous accolades of CC Skills Best Apprentice Employer in 2012 along with Best Collaboration with Education Providers in 2014. 

   The company is currently looking for its next intake of apprenticeships under the CVT framework. The deadline to apply is 23^rd February 2020, with the aim to start in April 2020. Interested applicants should visit this link. WL is particularly keen to hear from individuals currently underrepresented in the industry, such as those from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) and lower socio-economic backgrounds. 

   Chris concludes: “We are really proud of our apprentice scheme and the careers it has forged so far. As a company, it’s allowed us to fulfil our passion to nurture the next generation and make sure they receive the best start possible in what’s a notoriously competitive industry. Looking ahead, we are excited to meet the next cohort and continue delivering an award-winning scheme we have now become renowned for”.  

3. White Light Takes On New Apprentice Cohort

   28 October 2019 11:34 Leave a Comment

   

   White Light has recently taken on its latest batch of apprentices; following a year in which the company received two separate awards for its apprenticeship scheme.

   As a company, WL is passionate about developing the next generation of talent. Since 2011, WL has overseen 57 apprenticeships, with all of those who have completed the course going on to work in the industry. The company has recently taken on four brand-new apprentices: George Ploog, Azaldean Mohammed, Charlie Russell-Teare and Jack Bass. All four started last month and will be undertaking the Creative Venue Technician Standard which WL helped create as a member of the trailblazer group.  

   WL’s Health & Safety and Workforce Development Director Chris Nicholls comments: “We’re really excited by this latest cohort. They’re a great bunch who all embody the WL values and have a strong desire to learn. They are also slightly older than previous cohorts as we are now able to offer apprenticeships to  people over 25. This means more opportunities for a wider group of people; something we’ve been able to offer for the first time this year”.

   The apprentices all came through via the annual Recruitment Day, during which time they met the WL team, spoke with the various technicians and underwent a range of practical tests. Following this, Chris and his team decided on the four most suitable candidates. All four have already been inducted by the National College of Creative Industries and started their rotations in WL’s technical workshops, as well as undergoing Manual Handling training. Over the next 18 months, they will continue to rotate through the company’s various departments and in its managed venues as well as working on-site on a range of different projects, before conducting their end point assessment. 

   

   One of this year’s successful candidates actually heard about the apprenticeship through another development scheme that WL supports. Chris explains: “Azaldean took part in the Kiln Theatre’s Production Arts Course which aims to diversify backstage roles in theatre. Our Managing Director Bryan Raven was heavily involved in the scheme, giving talks and presentations as well as offering a tour of WL. One of those who attended that tour was Azaldean who subsequently applied for the apprenticeship”.

   Azaldean comments: “I had been looking for a way to enter the industry for about a year now. The main thing for me is that I want to be gaining practical experience while learning. So when I heard Bryan talk about the apprenticeship, I just applied and was fortunate enough to be selected”.

   In a similar vein, Charlie undertook work experience at WL’s warehouse, which encouraged him to apply for the apprenticeship. He comments: “I was always interested in lighting but wasn’t aware you could get any official qualifications. My dad told me about WL so I applied to do some work experience. Once I was there, I heard about the apprenticeship and decided to just go for it”.

   Chris adds: “As a company, it’s not just about people coming through via the ‘traditional’ routes – it’s about us ensuring the right candidates receive the right opportunities they need to flourish”.

   

   This year’s four apprentices follow in the footsteps of the 2018 cohort who have almost completed their 18 months’ worth of training and are busy putting their developed skills to practice. Chris explains: “In terms of the previous group, Alfie and Sophie have now completed their placements. Sophie spent time at the Roundhouse and Alfie worked on The Crown for Netflix where he experienced life as part of a television production team.  Dan has begun a month at the London Coliseum and Nathan will soon be at the Hornchurch Theatre in Essex whilst they gear up for panto season”.

   This year marks a particularly significant one for WL’s apprentice scheme. Not only did the company win Employer of the Year at the Creative and Cultural Skills Awards but also won the Merton Best Business Awards Apprentice of the Year Award for Dominic Devereux. The cohort that Dominic was a part of (2017) are all still working at the company, in a variety of roles from Site Technician to Production Coordinator.

   Chris concludes: “Our apprentice scheme has two aims: to equip the next generation with the practical skills they need as well as ensure they have a prospective career path by the time they leave. The fact that 8% of our current workforce consists of previous apprentices shows just how successful the scheme is and how the programme allows them to progress within the industry. We are really excited to be working with the latest intake and seeing where their apprenticeships take them”.

4. White Light Continues its Commitment to Mental Health Awareness

   10 October 2019 14:16 Leave a Comment

   

   As a company signed up to the Mental Health Charter, WL is committed to raising the awareness and discussion around mental health. As a result, the company recently trained several of its staff to become Mental Health First Aiders, ensuring all of its employees have access to the necessary support should they require it.

   Last week, the MHFA (Mental Health First Aid) visited WL’s Wimbledon premises to conduct two days of training, allowing the ten attendees to become Mental Health First Aiders. The role of a Mental Health First Aider allows people to recognise the crucial warning signs of mental ill health and give them the confidence to guide someone to appropriate support. One of the participants included WL’s Head of Moving Light Matt Farquhar, who comments: “Since becoming a Manager, I’ve learnt an awful lot about how mental health affects people’s personal, working and social lives. Unfortunately, mental health still has a certain stigma associated with it and I wanted to help break this down at the workplace”.

   Also taking the training was WL’s Recruitment Co-ordinator Shannon Hurley. She states: “Having lost a friend due to their own struggles with mental health, I am always looking for ways in which I can raise awareness and offer help to those who need it. I volunteer for the charity Shout as a Crisis Line Volunteer and so when I found out that WL was training more Mental Health First Aiders, I wanted to get involved. WL is the first company I’ve worked for that has been a strong advocate for mental health awareness and it’s something I want to embrace as an employee”.

   As part of the training, WL staff worked closely with the MHFA over a two-day period in which they were taught an array of techniques to help recognise the signs of someone who may be suffering with mental health and how to respond to this by providing a safe space for recovery. They were also taught the Mental Health First Aid action plan ALGEE: Approach and assess, Listen and communicate, Give support, Encourage help and Encourage others.

   Shannon explains: “What was great about the training was how it practically showed us how to approach and deal with certain situations. A big part of removing the stigma around mental health is opening the conversation and showing people that it’s nothing to be ashamed of”.

   Matt and Shannon were trained alongside eight others who work all across the company to ensure the resources stretch as widely as possible. Matt comments: “Using everything I’ve learned, I now feel I have both the confidence and tools to assist anyone who may be suffering from poor mental health – something that’s a valuable asset to the organisation”.

   Chris Nicholls concludes: “Health, Safety and Welfare has always been a huge priority at WL – and that’s not just the physical side. Thankfully, as a society, we’re finally recognising the benefits of looking after our own mental health as well as that of our family, friends and colleagues. As a company, we are delighted that over 5% of our staff are now trained Mental Health First Aiders and we will continue offering our team as many resources and support options as possible”.

5. WL Wins Apprentice of the Year at the Merton Business Awards

   28 September 2019 13:45 Leave a Comment

   

   We are delighted to announce that we have won the Merton Best Business Awards’ Apprentice of the Year after nominating Dominic Devereux.

   The Merton Best Business Awards recognise and promote excellence, innovation and best practice in Merton. They have been running for over seven years and feature categories such as Best Employer (which WL won in 2018), Best New Business, Entrepreneur of the Year and Best Apprentice of the Year.

   For Best Apprentice of the Year, WL put forward Dominic Devereux who started at the company just over two years ago at the age of 17. WL’s Health & Safety and Workforce Development Director Chris Nicholls comments: “One of the main reasons we initially took Dominic on was his enthusiasm. From the moment he arrived at WL for the Apprentice Open Day, we could see how eager he was to get involved and learn as much as he could; one of the most important attributes we look for in any apprentice”.

   Dominic was part of an initial cohort who undertook the first-ever Creative Venue Technician Apprenticeship. Since then, Dominic has completely thrown himself into the company and instantly became ‘one of the team’. Displaying maturity beyond his years, he’s being part of a range of projects during his time here, often during extremely unsociable hours, and has received exceptional feedback for every event he’s worked on.

   

   Chris states: “The projects Dom has worked on include the annual servicing at Westfield, a placement at VAULT Festival, building our stand at the PLASA Show, undertaking a four-week placement at Rose Bruford College as part of a student exchange as well as numerous conferences and awards ceremonies at Central Hall Westminster, where we are the in-house Production Partner. All of these jobs were with important clients and required very different disciplines and specific approaches – all of which Dom has learned and developed during his time here. Our staff have been so impressed by his can-do attitude that he has actually been offered a full-time position within the Technical Service department”.

   The Merton Best Business Awards took place on 26th September at the All England Tennis Club, Wimbledon.

   Dominic comments: “WL has been very supportive of me as an apprentice, offering insightful training courses as well as practical experience in a wide array of different situations. I really enjoyed the initial rotational schedule which enabled me to work within each of the various departments and offer me great experience, as well as help hone my interests. I now look forward to continuing the next chapter in my career with the company”.

   Chris concludes: “We are all extremely proud of Dom and the fact that he’s received this recognition. As a company, we are dedicated to nurturing the next generation and equipping them with the skills and experience needed to succeed. Having already been awarded Employer of the Year at the CC Skills Awards earlier this year, we’re delighted that the wider industry has once again recognised our commitment to apprentices and the value they bring to the sector”.

6. #InspiringFutureTheatre Day

   4 July 2019 13:38 Leave a Comment

   

   Yesterday, theatres, arts organisations and industry professionals across the UK celebrated the wide range of offstage theatre careers available for young people. A joint initiative by Society of London Theatre (SOLT), UK Theatre and Education & Employers, #InspiringFutureTheatre encourages young people to explore job opportunities within a sustainable and representative theatre workforce. As an organisation which offers an award-winning Apprentice scheme, alongside supporting a range of educational organisations such as the National College of Creative Industries, we were involved in a series of events taking place throughout the day.

   Formed in response to SOLT and UK Theatre’s 2017 Workforce Reviews, Inspiring Future Theatre reaffirms the organisations’ commitment to opening up paths within theatre for young people, building a resilient workforce that’s representative of the UK’s diverse population. Workshops were held at nine theatres across all the major London theatre owners, from speed networking sessions to technical insights into staging a large-scale show. Theatre Royal Haymarket, the Cambridge Theatre, the Vaudeville Theatre, the Aldwych Theatre, the Piccadilly Theatre, the Prince of Wales Theatre, the Gillian Lynne Theatre, the Donmar Warehouse and the Royal Opera House all participated on the day.

   

   WL’s Health & Safety and Workforce Development Director Chris Nicholls attended the talk at the Vaudeville Theatre whereas WL’s Managing Director Bryan Raven was at the Kiln Theatre in North West London where he was helping to deliver a careers session (which included a CV workshop). WL has recently been working closely with the venue’s Creative Learning team as part of a venture to find a new generation of technicians. The Production Arts students in attendance, who are on a 10 week part time course to learn about the technical side of the industry, had visited WL last Saturday to get an overall picture of the potential of the industry from Bryan. The students will be visiting WL over the next two weekends to learn more about audio & lighting through a range of practical, hands-on demonstrations.

   Coinciding with #InspiringFutureTheatre, WL is now recruiting for its latest batch of apprentices. Following on from being crowned Employer of the Year at the CC Skills Awards earlier this year, the company is wanting to continue developing the next generation of industry talent. Find out more here.

7. White Light Wins Employer of the Year at CC Skills Awards

   2 April 2019 14:50 Leave a Comment

   

   White Light has been named Employer of the Year at the Creative & Culture Awards 2019.

   The Creative & Cultural Skills showcase the individuals and organisations that have shown an outstanding commitment to skill development and learning in the creative industries. Having previously won the CC Skills Best Apprentice Employer in 2012 along with Best Collaboration with Education Providers in 2014, WL was shortlisted for Employer of the Year this year alongside Rubican Dance and Manchester International Festival. Last night, they were announced as winners at a ceremony held in the National Museum Cardiff with over 200 guests in attendance.

   Simon Dancey, CEO of Creative & Cultural Skills, comments: “2019 drew the highest number of nominations in the event’s history. The calibre of nominees we had in this year’s awards was truly exceptional. As a sector we’re not very good at celebrating the work we do, particularly the work which goes on behind the scenes. These awards are designed as a chance for us to take time out of our usual day-to-day activities and reflect on our successes”.

   WL’s Health & Safety and Workforce Development Director Chris Nicholls comments: “It’s an absolute honour to be awarded as the Employer of the Year at the CC Skills Awards. As a company, we have made it a personal commitment to ensure we give our apprentices the very best training possible. Our aim is to expand their knowledge, give them unforgettable experiences, and ensure that they are fully equipped with the vital skills they will need for their future careers. To be recognised like this is a huge honour and we are extremely grateful to everyone at CC Skills for doing so”.

   

   The latest Apprentice cohort at last month’s VAULT Festival.

   The Award was presented by Cassie Chadderton, Head of UK Theatre, who commented on the evening: “This is an employer known for its support in the industry but not always recognised for the commitment they show to the workforce development of their own staff. They have played a leading role in championing apprenticeships within their own workplace and within the sector”.

   Having run its Apprentice Scheme since 2011, White Light has overseen a total of 49 technical apprenticeships, with 6% of its current workforce made up of apprentices. The company provides a solid grounding in technical knowledge when the apprentices first; rotating them between warehouse departments such as Moving Lights, LED, Systems and Control Rigging, Cables, Sound, Video and Audio, Operations and Technical Services. They then move into the Site Technician team, allowing each one to work on various events such as the London Fashion Weeks, Covent Garden Christmas Lights as well as meetings and conferences in venues where WL is the in-house technical supplier such as Central Hall Westminster and Claridge’s.

   WL also works closely with similar networks who also offer apprenticeships within the technical framework, allowing our apprentices to interchange and receive placements in different venues such as Royal Opera House, the National Theatre and VAULT Festival.  The company has also decided to widen its apprentice offering and give candidates the opportunity to work in an office-based role, taking on two Business Administration Apprenticeships who will train and develop their skills within the marketing and business support departments.

   Chris comments: “As a company, we’re proud to have fulfilled our commitment of taking on an average at least six intakes a year since 2011 and will continue to do so, with our next intake being in May. As the first employer in the country to take on the new Creative Venue Technician framework, not only do we want to push our apprentices, but also ourselves, ensuring we offer our apprentices a scheme that they wouldn’t receive anywhere else”.

8. White Light’s Apprenticeship Scheme: Shortlisted for CC Skills Awards 2019

   7 March 2019 08:13 Leave a Comment

   

   Having run its Apprentice Scheme since 2011, White Light has overseen a total of 49 technical apprenticeships, with 6% of its current workforce made up of apprentices. Having previously been recognised at the CC Skills Awards as Best Apprentice Employer (2012) and Best Collaboration with Education Providers (2014), the company was now been shortlisted for Employer of the Year in 2019.

   First launched in 2012, the annual Creative & Cultural Skills Awards celebrate individuals and organisations who champion excellence in the creative industries. They shine a light on those who have shown an outstanding commitment to developing skills and learning in the creative industries, ensuring the next generation have the skills needed for the sector to continue to thrive.

   Simon Dancey, Creative & Cultural Skills CEO, said “This year we had a record number of nominations for our Awards, and the judges were blown away by the quality of the candidates. Seeing the vast range of talent across the UK, and the commitment shown by so many to building a skilled, representative future workforce, has confirmed to me the value of these awards. This is an opportunity for us to come together and celebrate the fantastic work being done by so many unsung heroes of the cultural sector.”

   WL has been shortlisted for Employer of the Year; a category that is new for 2019. The Employer of the Year Award celebrates a business, great or small, in the creative and cultural sector, who has shown innovation or continued commitment to developing the skills of its workforce. WL’s Health & Safety and Workforce Development Director Chris Nicholls comments: “Whilst we’re a company renowned for investing in the very latest technology, we’re just as well known for investing our people. Over the years, we’ve shown a continued commitment to pushing our apprentices, expanding their knowledge and ensuring they are fully equipped with the vital skills needed for their future careers”.

   

   WL’s Health & Safety and Workforce Development Director Chris Nicholls

   The WL Apprenticeship aims to nurture those embarking on a career in technical theatre. The apprenticeship is a Level 3 Creative Venue Technician course which is a combination of ‘on-site’ and ‘in-house’ training; with the company being the first in the UK to follow this framework. Working alongside their training provider the National College of Creative Industries, WL delivers specific training courses in order for those undertaking the apprenticeship to receive the necessary base skills and certification that is recognised and required in the industry. Applications to apply for the Autumn intakes will open in May on the WL website.

   The other employers shortlisted for this year’s CC Skills Employer of the Year Award include Rubicon Dance, based in Cardiff, as well as the Skills and Training Team at Manchester International Festival.

   Chris concludes: “It’s fantastic to be shortlisted alongside such brilliant company. Similar to ourselves, each organisation is committed to nurturing the next generation of technicians. Ultimately, it’s these individuals who are the reason as to why we continue running our scheme year on year”.

    

9. White Light’s Apprenticeship Scheme: Where Are They Now?

   6 March 2019 10:12 Leave a Comment

   

   Since 2011, WL has overseen a total of 49 technical apprenticeships. Many of these are currently employed by the company, many still work with us on a freelance basis whereas others have gone on to pursue a range of technical roles within the industry. In this blog, we look back at the apprentices who have taken part in our scheme over the years and see where they are now.

   Dan Goodwin was part of WL’s first intake of apprentices back in 2011. Today, he still works at WL in the role of WL Venue Logistics Supervisor. He explains: “After finishing my studies, I spent around three years freelancing, which mainly involved lighting a touring show. And whilst I picked up a lot of ‘on the job’ skills, there was very little theory so my technical knowledge was limited. As a result, I undertook a WL Technical Apprenticeship where I was able to work within the majority of departments, such as rigging and moving lights. After my apprenticeship, I worked as a WL Demo Technician before moving onto WL Hire Contracts Administrator, WL Hire Co-ordinator before arriving at my current role as WL Venue Logistics Supervisor. My job now is to continuously improve and streamline the various request formats and procedures that come through our range of Managed Venues and it’s something I really enjoy”.

   Simon Arnold was part of the third intake of apprentices and is currently a WL Hire and Sales Co-ordinator. He explains: “From working at Twickenham Stadium as part of the Rugby World Cup to follow-spotting at the Roundhouse, the apprenticeship was a rocket which propelled me into the entertainment industry. Picking up recognised qualifications, managing myself to be on site on time and working with top level professionals meant I got both a grounding and a foot in the door. Now I work on the hire desk for WL, supporting existing projects, seeking out new enquiries and translating them into trucks of kit, delivered on time and to the high standard that our client base expects”.

   

   Another former apprentice still working for WL is Michael Tyler who is now a Site Technician and works across the UK on a range of projects. He comments: “The apprenticeship meant a lot as it gave me opportunities to work on events and projects that I wouldn’t have been able to anywhere else. It also gave me the skills and knowledge to immediately start my current role and hit the ground running”.

   Alfie Gunningham was part of the 2015 Apprentice intake and went on to co-found events company Nightstar Events. He comments: “During my time at WL, I partook in everything from Electrical Theory Training, to hands on experience at high profile venues and events. My apprenticeship was invaluable in giving me the skills I use day-to-day, working on live events across the country. Without it, I wouldn’t have been able to grow as a person and climb the career ladder anywhere near as quickly as I have. Managing an events company at age 20 is something I would never have dreamed of doing so if anyone’s got a passion for the entertainment industry and wants to try something new then I would heartily recommend applying”.

   Alongside those who now have successful careers within the industry, there are currently seven apprentices based at WL. One of these is Zach Patel, who comments: “I’ve been an apprentice for just over a year and am now based in the Audio department. In my time here so far, I’ve gained lots of hands on experience as well as training and knowledge that will last me my career”. Another current apprentice is Nathan Cocker, who comments: “Undertaking the apprenticeship means you are earning a wage whilst gaining hands on experience in the industry. It also allows you to kickstart your career due to the industry contacts you meet”.

   

   Alongside Nathan as part of this year’s cohort is Sophie Gill who states: “It has been a really hands-on experience so far, and I’ve loved getting involved, especially if there is a challenge. Working in each department has allowed me to communicate with multiple people in the company and build good relationships whilst learning about what I love. Being sent out on site is also a great experience as we get to put our knowledge to the test and apply all of our acquired skills to help clients directly”.

   WL’s Health & Safety and Workforce Development Director Chris Nicholls, who oversees the apprenticeship scheme, comments: “We are extremely proud of our past apprentices who have all excelled and are now pursuing their own exciting careers which play to the strengths and skills they developed during their time here. We are equally proud of our current batch and look forward to seeing where their passion, ability and technical knowledge takes them in the future”.

    

10. White Light’s Apprenticeship Scheme: The Story So Far

    4 March 2019 13:57 Leave a Comment

    

    To celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, we will be posting a blog every day this week which focuses on our long-running apprenticeship scheme and the impact this has had on both past and current apprentices. Today, we’re reflecting on how successful the scheme has been so far and how we are now offering apprenticeships that go beyond the traditional technical training.

    As an organisation, we pride ourselves on our industry knowledge, personal service and high technical standards. We are equally passionate about developing the next generation of talent and a way in which we do this is through our annual apprenticeship scheme. Since 2011, we have overseen a total of 49 technical apprenticeships as well as winning Best Apprentice Employer in 2012, along with Best Collaboration with Education Providers in 2014 with Fairfield Halls and ATG at the Creative and Cultural Skills Awards.

    Now in its eighth year and with a fresh intake of apprentices, the scheme is as strong as ever and continues to be overseen by WL’s Health & Safety and Workforce Development Director Chris Nicholls. Chris comments: “Since 2011, we have fulfilled our commitment of taking on an average of six intakes per year, with each of these having their training based on the Technical Theatre framework (up until 2017). From our initial intake of four apprentices in 2011, several are still employed by the company in various roles including Event Site Technicians, Account Handlers, Advanced Installations Technicians, Crew Logistics and Supervisors in our Control Department. In fact, 6% of our workforce is made up of our current apprentices; a fact we’re very proud of”.

    

    The WL Apprenticeship aims to nurture those embarking on a career in technical theatre. The company is the first in the UK to offer the new level 3 Creative Venue Technician standard and WL was one of the employers who helped shape this standard.  The standard is a combination of ‘on-site’ and ‘in-house’ training as well as 20% ‘off the job’ training. Working alongside their training provider the National College of Creative Industries, WL delivers specific training courses in order for those embarking on the apprenticeship to receive the necessary base skills and certification that is recognised and required in the industry.

    Chris explains: “For us, it’s vital that we offer our apprentices training that is going to be transferable to their future career. That’s why we provide a solid grounding in technical knowledge when they first join WL; rotating them between warehouse departments such as Moving Lights, LED, Systems and Control Rigging, Cables, Sound, Video and Audio, Operations and Technical Services. We then move them into our Site Technician team, allowing each one to work on various events such as the London Fashion Weeks, Covent Garden Christmas Lights as well as meetings and conferences in venues where we are the in-house technical supplier such as Central Hall Westminster and Claridge’s. It’s an experience they wouldn’t receive elsewhere and one which we’re extremely proud of”.

    WL has recently decided to widen its apprentice offering and give candidates the opportunity to work in an office-based role and be part of the two teams that support vital parts of the business. Two new roles will be Business Administration Apprenticeships who will train and develop their skills within the marketing and business support departments, as well as gain insight and experience in related finance areas. The first of these apprenticeships was given to Aayla Royal who will be based at WL’s Wimbledon base. The next successful candidate will start in mid-March.

    

    Sandra Tyler, WL’s Head of HR, comments: “With our technical apprenticeships proving so successful, we felt it was right to offer something that allowed candidates to experience the more administrative side of our industry. The aim of the Business Administration Apprenticeship is to enable those who take part to become highly trained individuals with practical experience gained in all aspects of our Business Support teams. We really look forward to working with Aayla and giving her hands-on experience and training she wouldn’t receive elsewhere”.

    Chris concludes: “The fact that our apprenticeship scheme has won awards, as well as allowed those who’ve undertaken it to have successful careers in our industry, shows what an extremely valuable training platform it is. We are committed to bringing through and training what will be the next generation and look forward to continuing the scheme for many years to come”.