top of page
apprentice background.png

CCA APPRENTICESHIP
PROGRAMME

EARN • LEARN • TEACH • PERFORM

A paid school-leaver pathway into a career in performing arts teaching.

STARTING SEPTEMBER 2027

APPLICATIONS OPENING SOON

Screenshot 2026-09-18 at 11.37.59.png
Screenshot 2026-09-18 at 11.37.59.png
Silhouetted Dance Performance
Screenshot 2026-09-18 at 11.37.59.png
Screenshot 2026-09-18 at 11.41_edited.jpg

NOT EVERYONE WANTS TO GO TO COLLEGE. 
AND THAT'S OK.

Our Apprenticeship Programme gives you a different route - a chance to earn, learn and build a real career in the performing arts.

As an apprentice, you'll be employed by CCA, earn while you learn, and gain hands-on experience in a working performing arts academy. You'll develop your skills, confidence and knowledge, all while making a real difference to the lives of children and young people through dance, theatre, acro, circus and more.

YOUR LIFE AS A CCA APPRENTICE

No two days at CCA look exactly the same. You'll become a paid member of the CCA team, spending approximately 20-25 hours per week learning, working and developing within a real performing arts academy. 

You won't spend your apprenticeship sitting in a classroom. You'll learn through real experience - working alongside our teachers, supporting students, completing specialist training and gradually taking on more responsibility as your confidence and skills grow. 

IN THE STUDIO

Work alongside experienced CCA teachers across Dance, Acro, Circus and Theatre.

Begin by observing and assisting before gradually developing the skills to lead activities and teach under supervision.

BEHIND THE SCENES

Discover what goes into running a performing arts academy, from preparing classes and resources to supporting productions, events, holiday activities and projects.

DEVELOP AS A TEACHER

Learn how to plan engaging classes, communicate with different ages, manage groups, give effective corrections, create choreography and support individual students.

IN THE STUDIO

Your working week includes paid time for your Level 2 apprenticeship learning, NextGen Teaching Mastery, specialist qualifications and ongoing professional development.

your qualifications & training

LEVEL 2 COMMUNITY
ACTIVATOR COACH
APPRENTICESHIP

Equivalent to 5 GCSE's at grades 9-4.


Delivered with Lifetime Training.

TEACHING MASTERY
CPD CERTIFICATE

Dance & Theatre Teacher Training


Delivered with NextGen Coaching Collective.

LEVEL 5 RQF
INJURY PREVENTION

Certificate in Dancer's Injury Prevention & Wellbeing.

Delivered with Dance Teacher Training Academy.

ACRO TEACHER TRAINING

Assistant Teacher (16+)
Level 1 Teacher (18+)


Delivered with AcroTrix.

PAEDIATRIC FIRST AID

OFSTED Compliant First Aid Certificate. 


Delivered with Nova Stellar First Aid Training.

SAFEGUARDING & ENHANCED DBS

Safeguarding Certificate and DBS Check.


Provided by Colman Creative Academy.

OTHER PROFESSIONAL TRAINING

Any other training CCA feel would be beneficial during your apprenticeship. 

HOW THE APPRENTICESHIP WORKS

A clear structure. A supportive journey. Real progress.

PAID EMPLOYMENT 
20-25 HOURS PER WEEK.

You'll be employed by CCA.

15 - 18 MONTHS 
INCLUDING ASSESSMENT.

Build your skills and complete your qualification.

ONLINE & WORKPLACE 
LEARNING. 

Study with Lifetime Training and other training providers alongside hands-on academy experience.

COACHING WITH LIFETIME TRAINING, EVERY 4-6 WEEKS.

Regular support to help you grow and succeed.

GOVERNMENT-FUNDED TRAINING

Your training is funded through the apprenticeship programme.

THIS ISN'T WORK EXPERIENCE. IT'S THE BEGINNING OF YOUR CAREER.

Screenshot 2026-09-18 at 12.28.40.png

WHO IS THIS FOR?

☑️ Age 16+

☑️ School Leaver

☑️ Passionate about dance, theatre, acro and circus

☑️ Enjoys working with children and young people

☑️ Ready to learn and contribute as part of a team

☑️ Ability to learn independently

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: English & Maths GCSE (or equivalent)*, Successful Interview.

* English & Maths can be taken alongside training if required. 

WHAT SUPPORT WILL YOU RECEIVE?

EXPERIENCED CCA
TEACHING TEAM

Learn from and be supported by industry professionals.

LIFETIME TRAINING COACH

A dedicated trainer to guide you through your qualification.

PAID
STUDY TIME

Time within your working hours to complete training and coursework.

WORKPLACE MENTORING

Ongoing feedback, advice and support in the academy.

SAFEGUARDING AND WELLBEING SUPPORT

A safe, positive environment where you can thrive.

Register Your Interest
Screenshot 2026-09-18 at 13.09.10.png

Frequently asked questions

bottom of page