Head of Youth Theatre

Manage, maintain and develop the work of the Youth Theatre in dialogue with the Head of Creative Engagement and working closely with the Creative Engagement Co-Coordinator to administer all aspects of Youth Theatre.

Devise and deliver Youth Theatre work which connects to the artistic vision of the theatre and enables the creative voices of young participants to be expressed and heard.

Act as first port of call for Youth Theatre cover sessions in the event of staff absence.

Seek out opportunities to connect young people to the various work which is carried out across the theatre and the city.

Grow the range and scope of Youth Theatre provision, including our Theatre Making Skills and Access All Areas groups, to establish a network of Youth Theatre groups across the city.

Direct Youth Theatre productions at York Theatre Royal and off site at other venues.

Act as an advocate for young people and for the work of the Youth Theatre both internally and beyond the organisation.

Implement our Youth Theatre access policy to identify and enable Youth Theatre participants to receive support with specific needs, ensuring that our offer is accessible for all.

Co-ordinate regular theatre visits for Youth Theatre members to see productions at York Theatre Royal.

Lead on the recruitment and management of Youth Theatre staff and volunteers, in line with the Theatre’s recruitment and equal opportunities policies.

Deliver termly training and arrange termly visits to support Youth Theatre freelance staff, ensuring the staff team feel valued and their voices, ideas and concerns are heard.

Manage the Youth Theatre budget.

Ensure that all Youth Theatre sessions are carried out in a safe environment and in accordance with the Health & Safety policy. Lead on writing risk assessments for Youth Theatre sessions and ensure that these are updated regularly.

Promote awareness of the Safeguarding Policy and monitor compliance amongst staff and freelancers.

Work closely with the Creative Engagement Co-ordinator to ensure the effective administration of YT and timely communication with parents, guardians, carers and participants along with the maintenance of records in line with the Theatre’s Data Protection Policy.

Maintain systems (such as a YT Forum) by which YT participants’ needs, suggestions and voices are listened and responded to.

Lead on ensuring that all Youth Theatre projects and productions are delivered to the highest standard, on schedule and within budget, as agreed with the Head of Creative Engagement. Liaise with the Production Department to facilitate Youth Theatre productions including the setting and arranging of production meetings.

Seek out and maintain relevant networks amongst organisations and individuals both locally and nationally, representing YTR as appropriate.

Seek out new opportunities for YT funding in liaison with the Head of Creative Engagement and Development Team.

Person Specification

Essential:

– At least 3 years professional experience of devising and delivering YT
– Experience of directing children & young people
– Enthusiasm, positivity, imagination and the drive to motivate & inspire
– Have artistic vision and ambition with the ability to collaborate
– Experience of leading and mentoring a team and ability to build rapport and relationships with colleagues
– Be an advocate for young people and young people’s work
– Commitment to EDI
– Understanding of theatre skills, practice and pedagogy
– Exceptional and demonstrable organisational, communication and administrative skills
– Excellent communication and negotiation skills
– Ability to work regular evenings & weekends as necessary
– Ability to work as part of a team
– Knowledge of safeguarding practice

Desirable:

– Proven track record of working with those underserved in the arts
– Experience of commissioning and working with writers
– Full drivers licence

How to Apply

• Contact name: Administration
• Contact email: admin@yorktheatreroyal.co.uk