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Work Experience

Careers through the Arts

Placements for young people aged 14 – 25 at the Corn Exchange

Our popular Work Experience scheme is run as part of our Careers through the Arts programme in collaboration with Watermill Theatre.

Our Work Experience programme offers young people aged 14 – 25 the chance to explore the potential careers in the arts through hands on, inspiring opportunities within a variety of settings. Designed to support different stages of learning and career development, the programme is delivered through three stands, depending on your age.

Ages 14 – 16 (Year 10 & 11)

We offer up to 12 places for young people to join us for a week of practical experience across all our acres of work. The week includes Q&A sessions with staff, practical tasks, visits to 101 Outdoor Arts and The Base gallery.

Applicants will complete an application form and apply via email. From there, we will invite applicants to a short group interview at the Corn Exchange before contacting successful applicants.

Our work experience week for 2026 will be Monday 13 – Friday 17 July.

Applications open soon

For more information about work experience at the Watermill Theatre, visit their page. 

Ages 16 – 18 (Year 12 & 13)

We offer up to 8 bespoke placements per year. These intensive experiences typically last up to 4-days, providing a unique window into the professional arts world.

Depending on our current seasonal programming and staff capacity, placements may take place at one of the following:

  • Corn Exchange Newbury 

  • Watermill Theatre

  • 101 Outdoor Arts 

  • The Base Greenham

Please Note: While we aim to match your interests with your preferred venue, all placements are subject to availability and the specific needs of our production schedules.

How to Apply

Applications remain open year-round. We will review applications and conduct interviews at specific selection points throughout the academic calendar. We recommend applying early to be considered for the next available cohort.

Please find the link to the application form below:

Work Experience Application - Careers through the Arts Form

Ages 18 - 25

This strand is designed for aspiring early-career creatives, graduates, or those looking to pivot into the arts sector. These placements offer a rigorous, hands-on look at the daily operations of our busy venues and partner organisations, treated with the same expectations as a professional role.

We offer up to 4 placements per year. These are bespoke, unpaid opportunities tailored to align your specific career goals with our organizational needs. Placements are flexible in duration and location

Areas of focus may include:

  • Technical Theatre & Production
  • Arts Administration & Marketing
  • Learning & Participation and Outreach
  • Front of House and Customer Service
  • Outdoor Arts

To ensure every participant receives high-quality mentorship, placements are strictly subject to staff capacity and our current production schedule. We cannot always guarantee a placement in every department.

How to Apply

We accept applications all year round, with submissions reviewed at key points throughout the year. To be considered, please submit:

  • A current CV detailing your experience and education
  • A one-page cover letter outlining your preferred department and what you hope to achieve during your time with us.

Applications should be sent to anghardw@cornexchangenew.co.uk.