After the government approval of 59 group standards for Trailblazer apprenticeships earlier this year, the 'Live Event Rigger' working group lead the way in further developing the initiative to help more youngsters embark on careers in the live events industry. Employers who have supported the standard of the Live Event Rigger have been designing the apprenticeship over the past year.
The National Rigging Advisory Group's (NRAG) working subgroup, comprised of key industry representatives including PLASA and Blackout, helped design the assessment process to meet relevant business needs in terms of knowledge, skills and behaviours. NRAG agreed the range of assessment methods, grading and the requirements for professional body recognition.
The Live Event Rigger programme will feature topics covering every aspect of the role, developing apprentices' capability to maintain best practice to industry standards. Training in Team Working & Communication, Rigging Skills & Techniques, Working at Height and much more, will ensure safe and adequate practice from day one. After achieving PLASA NRC Level 2 (National Rigging Certificate), the individual will spend six months working towards attaining a level 3 apprenticeship. The end assessment incorporates a mixture of practical, portfolio and interview.
Adelaide Johannsen, Blackout's HR manager commented, "We helped identify the industry-wide requirement for a structured development plan for those deciding on a career in live event rigging. It is extremely encouraging to see the progress made since the creation of our working group. With the Assessment Plan approved, we are delighted to be among the rigging companies moving even closer to taking on the first round of Trailblazer apprentices."
For more information on the PLASA NRC, NRAG and more, visit: www.plasa.org/pd/qualifications
(Jim Evans)
