Next Generation Programme Developer

Do you have skills and experience in directing theatre productions with young people? Have you produced performance festivals or events for young people? Are you interested in developing the skills and talents of young people? Are you experienced in delivering creative work in a professional theatre environment?

The RSC has been working in long term partnership with schools and regional theatres nationally for over 10 years. The aim of this work has been to transform experiences of Shakespeare in the classroom, in performance and in the community. Over that time, we have sought to develop our understanding of how to co-create partnerships, programmes and pathways that respond to local needs and ambitions. We have striven to build and develop a national community of practice and research with schools, teachers, young people and artists. We currently have 25 Lead Associate Schools and 11 Regional Theatre Partners reaching approximately 140,000 children and young people.

To continue this amazing work, we are looking for an experienced practitioner to work with our Regional Theatre Partners and Associate Schools to develop the skills and talents of young people backstage and onstage through leading on and developing the RSC's Next Generation talent development and Playmaking programmes. These provide a wide range of opportunities for children and young people to take ownership of Shakespeare's work and discover and develop their talents.

Responsibilities will include:

• Developing an annual programme of regional performance opportunities for young people in the Associate Schools Programme, co-created with partner theatres and schools.
• Directing, developing and overseeing young people's performance festivals produced through our long-term partnership programme with schools and theatres, including an annual Playmaking Festival in Stratford-upon-Avon.
• Developing and running Next Generation Act, Direct and Backstage, the RSC's talent development programme for 13-18 year-olds, recruited from Associate Schools and from backgrounds currently under-represented in the arts and cultural sector.
• Working within Health and Safety, data protection and Safeguarding guidelines.
• Evaluating and monitoring the effectiveness and impact of the programmes you lead on.

It is essential to have significant, practical experience of working creatively with young people in a theatre environment, as well as skills in directing theatre productions with and by young people. We are looking for someone with the ability to engage and inspire artists and other theatre practitioners to work with schools, teachers and young people, and someone who has extensive experience in producing performance festivals or events for young people.

A commitment to social justice, equity and inclusion is an essential requirement for the role. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential alongside a passion for theatre and a belief in the difference it can make to the lives of children and young people. You will bring a solution driven approach, the ability to creatively problem solve and the capability to work effectively under pressure and to deadlines. Since this position is working with young people, you must be able to act with integrity, tact, patience and observe confidentiality.

The RSC is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. This position requires an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check to be carried out prior to starting.

This is a full time, permanent position, based in Stratford-upon-Avon (remote whilst under Covid-19 restrictions) and will require regular and extensive travel across the UK to Regional Theatre Partners and Associate Schools. You will work 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday and occasional weekend and evening work will be required.

Closing date: Sunday 27 June 2021.

All applications should be made online using the RSC website. If you need any assistance when applying, please email.

The RSC strives for excellence, and values integrity, inclusion, ambition and innovation. We act with respect, show leadership and build resilient ways of working in all our activities.

We aim to create a welcoming, supportive environment which is happy, healthy and safe. We place great importance upon developing a diverse, highly motivated and energised workforce to help achieve our priorities. We put our values at the heart of everything we do.

We are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and want to represent and amplify the voices of people currently underrepresented in our workforce. We therefore particularly welcome candidates from ethnically diverse backgrounds, or who identify as D/deaf or disabled.

The Royal Shakespeare Company (no. 212481) is a registered charity.