This part-time practical training programme takes place in Crawley from January 2027 to March 2027. The programme will consist of 2 x intensive weeks (each is 4 or 5 days, full time) and 6 x workshops.
Participants will get to work with creative professionals from across the UK in a range of arts spaces such as Unit 79/80 – a multi-disciplinary venue in County Mall – and develop new skills, contacts and ideas to help them work in the creative industries.
We are offering 8 paid places (up to £1000 each) to enable people who otherwise may not be able to pursue their creative aspirations due to existing barriers such as financial or socio-economic, to take part in the programme.
The programme will be shaped by the selected participants. They will be encouraged to step outside of their specialism and try new things and explore creative sectors new to them. The programme encourages a multi-disciplinary approach.
The Skills Exchange Programme is for people who are curious about what creative jobs they don’t already know about. For people who want to step out of their comfort zone and apply their skills in new ways.
It’s for those that don’t want to specialise yet, who are keen to learn a little about a lot of things to help decide their future.
If you are interested in fashion design you might also learn about music production.
If you are interested in visual art you might also learn about lighting design. If you are a filmmaker you might also learn about dance.
You’ll definitely cover the business side of things including finance, fundraising, legal set ups and marketing to name just a few.
This is not a programme for people who want to act, sing or dance. Its for those who want to make things and shape things from behind a sound desk or a sewing machine or a computer. It’s also for people who want to produce, curate, direct or choreograph and want to find out how other specialisms work.
We are looking for up to 8 people who:
We have chosen the above criteria because we have used current data and research into the creative industries that tells us that, for a variety of reasons, young people are not able to access the creative industries easily.
We want to support the next generation of creatives in Crawley (where we are based) and wider West Sussex and and give opportunities to those that may not readily have them.
The application process is in two stages.
Stage One
To apply, please complete this Application Form HERE
You can apply with a written application through the Google Form above or email [email protected] your application as a Video or Audio file. If you are submitting a Video or Audio application, please ensure it is in a .WAV or .MP3 format and no bigger than 10MB or longer than 4 minutes.
Shortlisted candidates will be asked to interview online or in person in Crawley w/c 23rd November 2026.
Stage Two
Candidates who were successful in Stage One will be asked to come to an in person workshop in Crawley w/c 30th November 2026.
Candidates who are offered a paid place on the Skills Exchange Programme will be notified by Friday 11th December 2026.
Find out more about The Skills Exchange Programme in 2024/25 HERE
We are hosting two Q&A sessions online:
Tuesday 20 October, 5.30-6pm
Thursday 29 October, 6.30-7pm
Book your free tickets to the online sessions HERE
Funded by Sussex Community Foundation, Arts Council England Creative People and Place and The Garfield Weston Foundation.
