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The Backstage Academy’s New Foundation Degree Validated

The Backstage Academy’s new fast-track foundation degree in Live Events Production, set to be delivered at its training facility in Wakefield, has been formally validated by the University of Bolton.

The 15-month foundation degree, which is the only one of its kind, focuses on the artistic, creative and practical use of technology for live events and will be delivered in partnership with the University of Bolton.

According to Creative & Cultural Skills, the Sector Skills Council for creative and cultural industries, by 2017 there will be a need for 30,000 skilled backstage and offstage technical theatre staff to support live events. The Backstage Academy is aiming to train students who can help meet this demand.

Students will gain hands-on experience at the Backstage Academy thanks to its base at the LS-Live Studios in South Kirkby, Wakefield. LS-Live is one of the largest purpose-built rehearsal facilities in Europe and has hosted some of the world’s biggest music stars, including Lady Gaga, Elbow, Kylie, Genesis and Robbie Williams.

The course, which begins in November, will include modules on lighting, sound, staging and live visuals, as well as production design and specialist skills such as handling lasers and using 3D technologies.

In addition to gaining a foundation degree, students who successfully complete the intensive fast-track course will acquire relevant industry accredited qualifications, like the Event Safety Passport and the Powered Access Licence (PAL). They will also have the opportunity to progress onto the BA in Live Events Production with a further year of study.

Tuition will predominantly take place at LS-Live’s new state-of-the-art facility adjoining the rehearsal studio, which includes an Apple Authorised Training Suite, modern classrooms and a 3D viewing suite.

Robin Watkinson, chief operating officer at the Backstage Academy, said: "We were thrilled to receive the news that the University of Bolton had officially agreed to validate the foundation degree. Being linked to such an established and prestigious institution will help prospective students to see the foundation degree as a quality higher education offering. The course has been created by industry specialists and education professionals to meet both academic and industry requirements.

"It is perfect for anyone who has an interest in events production and it will provide hands on experience, essential industry and academic qualifications and the opportunity to make useful industry contacts."

Dr Rachel McLean, academic manager for backstage and creative technologies at the University of Bolton said: "The course has been very carefully constructed by a team of established and renowned academics and practitioners. We are very excited about this innovative initiative."

Rory Perrett, chief executive officer at the Backstage Academy, said: "We are very proud to receive formal approval of the degree from the University of Bolton. They clearly share our vision for how this unique learning model will break new ground for students wanting to enter a career in live events production. Not only will they gain real insight into the industry, but they will also gain a qualification more quickly and pay less for the privilege, at a time when fees are generally on the rise."

The foundation degree in Live Events Production starts on 27 November 2011 and there are currently still some places remaining. For further information on how to apply contact the University of Bolton Enquiry Team on 01204 903 903 or email

enquiries@bolton.ac.uk

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In picture (top): Bolton University representatives with Backstage Academy staff: Jo Hilditch - Lecturer in Music & Creative Industries (and link tutor to the Backstage Academy); Dr Rachel McLean - Academic Manager for Backstage & Creative Technologies; Ron Atkinson - Lecturer in Creative Industries & Business Development; Sam Johnson - Dean of the Faculty of Arts & Media Technologies; Dr Mark Scott - Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Arts & Media Technologies; Robin Watksinson, Chief Operating Officer of Backstage Academy; David Kirtlan, Chief Education Director of Backstage Academy; Rory Perrett, Chief Executive Officer of Backstage Academy.

In picture (lower): Industry partners with Backstage Academy staff: James Lewthwaite - University of Bolton; Simon Lovelace – Crewclass; Graham Thorne - Backstage Academy Module Tutor (Live Visuals); Joe Stathers Tracey - Head of Theatre & Performance Design & Technology, Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts (LIPA); John Napier - University of Bolton (Chair of the Validation Panel); Robin Watksinson, Chief Operating Officer of Backstage Academy; David Kirtlan, Chief Education Director of Backstage Academy; Rory Perrett, Chief Executive Officer of Backstage Academy.

5th August 2011

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