Free arts training programme returns this November with real-world experience and job opportunities
Young people in Rochdale with a passion for the arts are being encouraged to sign up for a free creative careers programme launching this November.
The nine-week evening course, run by Global Grooves, is open to 13 to 18-year-olds, with places also extended to 25 for young people with additional needs. Sessions will run every Tuesday evening from 6:30pm to 8:30pm at Richard Street Studios, Rochdale, from 4 November 2025 to 20 January 2026.
Participants will explore arts-based career paths through hands-on workshops in music, dance, visual arts, event production, and more. The course also includes four special Carnival Arts training days in Tameside and opportunities to gain real experience at local arts events across Greater Manchester.
Organisers say the programme is designed to help young people build practical skills, meet working artists, and plan their own arts events, all while building a strong network of local creatives.
“This is about giving young people in Rochdale the chance to explore career paths they may never have considered,” said Holly Prest, Artistic Director of Global Grooves. “We want to show them that working in the arts is not just a dream it’s a real and achievable future.”
The initiative is fully funded and includes paid travel expenses, mentoring, and potential access to future placements or paid work. It also offers targeted support for participants not currently in work or education, as well as those who are neurodiverse or have faced barriers to engagement.
As part of the programme, participants will:
- Attend nine evening workshops in Rochdale
- Join four training days at The Vale, Mossley, alongside young people from Oldham and Tameside
- Gain hands-on experience working at regional arts events
- Take part in taster sessions in music, dance, or visual arts
- Design and deliver their own creative events
- Get access to further mentoring, volunteering, and work opportunities
Applicants must live in Rochdale and be able to attend most of the scheduled sessions. Preference will be given to those aged 16 to 18.
Limited places are available and the deadline to apply is 20 October 2025.
To apply click here Creative Careers - ROCHDALE - Global Grooves or find out more, email: holly@globalgrooves.org or call 0161 870 6895.
Global Grooves is a community benefit society and a leader in Carnival arts across the UK, known for developing the next generation of culturally diverse artists.
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