Prop Maker - National Theatre Traineeship

We are looking for  a Prop Maker (National Theatre Traineeship) to join the National Theatre's Workshops team on a 12 Month Fixed Term Contract.  

This role is a training position fixed at a maximum of 12 months. Its aim is, each year, to offer a work-based training opportunity to those entering the prop making profession from further education, or after completion of an apprenticeship, or those who have gained equivalent experience elsewhere. It is an opportunity to obtain valuable experience working in a high-quality making environment that will equip you well for an onward career beyond the end of your time at the National Theatre. You will work and train alongside the NT’s professional prop making team, assisting in all aspects of the production of props for the National Theatre’s productions. You will be required to meet certain standards and demonstrate a clear progression in your skill sets.

The successful candidates will have the following:  

• A degree or apprenticeship based around prop making, carpentry, metalwork or scenic art, or equivalent experience.
• A knowledge of the craft skills, techniques, materials, and finishes required to produce props for theatre, opera and ballet/dance.
• A working understanding of the design process and realisation from a Designers’ concept to the final made item.
• The ability to work under minimum supervision and to respond correctly to a Designer’s requirements.
• An understanding of health and safety, and how it is implemented in a working environment.

If that sounds like you, then we would love to hear from you!

  Download the Job Description here.

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Working with us will give you..

• Complimentary staff tickets for shows and guided tours, subject to availability and policy
• 25 days annual leave increasing up to 32 with length of service (plus bank holidays)
• Development Programmes via e-learning platform, and specialist in-person training relating to role
• Access to interest-free season ticket loan and cycle scheme partnership
• Enhanced sick pay
• Family Friendly policies including Family leave and Support leave
• Family-friendly employer – we are a member of Parents and Carers in the Performing Arts (PiPA)
• Pension schemes with Legal & General and NEST
• Sabbatical option, subject to agreement and policy
• On-site staff canteen and social facilities
• On-site occupational health support
• In-house mental health and wellbeing advisors providing workplace counselling and support
• Wellbeing programme of events, including mental health awareness, financial wellbeing, skills sharing and opportunities to get active
• Exclusive staff talks to hear more about NT productions, past and present, from leading practitioners
• Discounted access to National Theatre at Home
• Volunteer leave – one paid day per year to volunteer for your chosen charity
• Discounts in the NT’s bars, cafés, restaurants, and bookshop, as well as in local businesses (from Wagamama to gyms), on and around the South Bank
• Access to retailer discounted gift cards and a cash-back-on-spending card

Please note

The closing date for the receipt of a completed application is Tuesday 7th July 2026 at 10:00am.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive a sufficient number of applications. To avoid disappointment, we encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity. Should you need support or additional time to submit an application please contact recruitment@nationaltheatre.org.uk.

In line with our commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), we recognise that we need to address underrepresentation in our organisation. We actively welcome applications from individuals who are part of global majority, disabled and LGBTQ+ communities, and are committed to creating an environment where everyone can thrive.

We strive to promote inclusive and equitable practices in all areas of the NT. As a Disability Confident Employer, we guarantee to interview disabled applicants who meet our minimum requirements for our vacancies.

If you would like to speak to someone about any adjustments or have any questions about the recruitment process, you can email recruitment@nationaltheatre.org.uk or call us on 02074523834.