Creative Careers Update - Merit Pro and Wild Rumpus

Credit Jenny Harper

Year One of our Creative Careers programme, dedicated to promoting the creative sector as a promising career avenue for young individuals, is drawing to a close. Through strategic partnerships between educational institutions and cultural organisations, such as the collaboration between Merit Pro and Wild Rumpus, the programme has provided meaningful work experience placements for young people in Stoke-on-Trent. Wild Rumpus introduced the pupils of Merit Pru to event management within an outdoor woodland setting, aiming to bolster their confidence and spark interest in diverse career paths encompassing arts, events, marketing, and design, all while fostering a sense of exploration and growth in a safe outdoor environment.

Engaging in activities ranging from woodland exploration to crafting flower crowns and designing menus, the group exhibited notable growth in confidence and enthusiasm, particularly in areas like marketing and design. Despite initial weather challenges, the sessions concluded on a positive note, with participants demonstrating excitement and confidence in their newfound outdoor work experiences. Through this partnership, valuable insights into positive work experiences have been gained, such as the significance of thorough preparation, flexibility, and supportive measures in facilitating successful work experiences amidst challenging environments.