Aberdeen City Council is seeking applications from budding artists to enter into a creative volunteering programme that could set them on the way to a career in the arts.
The Cultivate programme breaks down the barriers that prevent people from pursuing a career in the arts through providing an accessible pathway into volunteering in the creative sector. Through partnership working the tailored programme supports volunteers to gain an SQA qualification and increase their knowledge of the city’s cultural offer, whilst gaining confidence and valuable practical experience in the arts.
The Cultivate programme provides training and support to young people who are interested in developing their creative and personal skills while gaining a recognised qualification and valuable experience in the creative sector.
Councillor Marie Boulton, cultural spokesperson for Aberdeen City Council, said: “The city is making great strides not only in attracting must-see cultural events like Spectra and Nuart but also in nurturing the talents that we have on our own doorstep.
“We know there is huge artistic potential in Aberdeen and we are committed to giving individuals every opportunity to fulfil their promise. The Cultivate programme is an integral part of that commitment.”
Last year the Cultivate volunteers devised a workshop and creative environment to engage with families as part of the Creative Learning Inspiration Point main event. One of the volunteers from last year’s programme, Leila, reflected on gaining her award:
“The most important thing I learnt was that with a great team you can achieve great things! I found that Creative Learning provides a very nurturing and inspirational framework for young creatives to take steps towards building their future in the creative industries. I have learnt a lot about myself, what motivates me and what I am good at, I now know that I want to continue to work with people.”
Open to individuals aged 16 to 25 years, participants will work towards an SQA Volunteer Skills Award level 4. The programme is run by Creative Learning and supported by creative practitioners.
The programme will run on Thursdays between October 2017 and March 2018.
Applications due by Sunday, October 1, 2017. To apply please visit: http://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/community_life_leisure/arts/CreativeLearningTeam/txt_clt_cultivate.asp