The National Lottery Community Fund has donated nearly £20,000 to facilitate a specialised technical theatre course for young people in Peterborough. The course, covering lighting, sound, and event management will be taught at Jack Hunt School and at the Young Technicians Academy in the nearby village of Yaxley.
The specialist course will offer weekly hands-on experience and tuition to 25 young people, alternating between the two Cambridgeshire education hubs. The programme will offer each cohort access to the Academy’s up-to-date facilities and qualifications for young people in the creative industries.
Angela King, who leads Drama at Jack Hunt School, said: ‘I am very excited that we have been successful in our National Lottery community funding bid and that we will be working with the Young Technicians team. It is unusual for young people to have the opportunity to learn high level skills in the technical aspect of theatre and entertainment whilst at school. This funding will have a significant positive impact on the life chances of young people and their future careers.’
Young Technicians Academy chief executive Pino Socio commented: ‘We are thrilled to be partnering with Jack Hunt Secondary School to bring our Live Events expertise to their students! This is an incredible opportunity to inspire the next generation of young technicians, equipping them with real-world skills and hands-on experience in the dynamic world of live events. At YTA, we’re passionate about empowering young people, and this collaboration allows us to expand that mission right here in Peterborough!’