In September 2022, the Young Technicians Academy in Yaxley, near Peterborough, will launch its first BTEC programme.
Young Technicians Academy was founded in 2016 to provide experience in production arts to young people in Cambridgeshire. Students have the opportunity to develop practical skills in lighting, sound, event and stage management, lasers, music, media, and the performing arts. Young Technical Academy strives to provide real life scenarios in which students can develop their skills. They opened their first studio in 2021.
The first cohort of students will be able to choose between performing arts and production arts. These post-16 qualifications are unique to the area, giving learners a wider option for their studies and helping to plug skills gap created in the industry as s result of the pandemic. Applications are currently being taken and are available by contacting reception@youngtechacademy.co.uk
In March 2022, Stuart Gibbons OBE was announced as patron of the Academy, alongside actors Hayley Burroughs and Annabelle Davis as performing arts patrons.
Stuart Gibbons OBE is the joint managing director of Le Mark Group, an international supplier in the arts and entertainment industry. On his appointment as patron, Mr Gibbons said, ‘The Young Technicians Academy is a unique and much needed facility, training the next generation of events and entertainment personnel. I am honoured to be appointed as patron happy to lend my support to their endeavors.’
Hayley Burroughs commented, ‘It’s nice to be able to help younger generations to get into the industry. I want to support where I can, helping others to get the best opportunities.’
Annabelle Davis added, ‘Its an honour to be an ambassador for The Young Technicians Academy. I’m excited to see young people realise their talent and start working with them in the industry!’
Young Technicians CEO, Pino Soccio stated, ‘We are indebted to the huge levels of support shown to us by our patrons over the past six months while we find our feet in the new building. Young Technicians has developed beyond recognition since its inception back in 2016. Annabelle, Hayley and Stuart will, undoubtedly, be a great asset to the services we provide for young people, helping them on the route to employment within the industry.’
Harrison Fuller, Business Development Manager explained, ‘Since moving into the Academy we have been able to develop courses for home educated students, an alternative education provision working with the local authority, and grow our in-house education programmes including the post 16 offering. The support shown by such esteemed industry professionals as our patrons is humbling.’
