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Factory Academy

Calling all future producers, technicians and arts professionals – explore our free training programmes today

A camera operator films a live event in the Warehouse, which is filled with people. There is dramatic purple lighting with multiple cameras and bright stage beams. A camera operator films a live event in the Warehouse, which is filled with people. There is dramatic purple lighting with multiple cameras and bright stage beams.

Break through

Searching for your next creative opportunity? Not sure where to start? With a wide-ranging programme of courses, Factory Academy has you covered. 

From the basics of sound and lighting to the ins and outs of content creation, our courses offer practical learning, skills-based training and first-hand industry experience. 

Join an exciting cohort of fellow students at Aviva Studios and meet creatives from across Manchester and beyond. The best part? It’s all free! 

Since its launch in 2018, Factory Academy has trained over 1000 Greater Manchester residents. You could be next. 

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WATCH ↓
A technician working backstage at the Johnny Marr performance, managing live concert footage on computers.

WATCH: FACTORY ACADEMY

Course Summaries

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Get to know a few of our greatest hits. From taking your first step towards a career in the creative industries or growing your current skillset, here are some of the courses that can help you realise your potential.
Explore our core programmes →

UPCOMING COURSES

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FAQs

Who can apply?

Eligibility varies from course to course and is detailed in the 'Who can apply?' section on each course page. If you are living in Greater Manchester and either unemployed or earning less than £20,888 then get in touch.

And if you can't see something for your age group right now, watch this space as we'll have you covered with future opportunities.

No previous experience or degree is required. All you need is an interest in the creative industries and the will to develop and learn new skills.

We are especially keen to hear from those who are underrepresented in our sector and especially applicants from low-income households.

How much does it cost?

These courses are fully funded. That’s right, they are free.

Will I gain any qualifications?

It depends on the course. For example, those who completed the Broadcast & Production programme were awarded a BTEC Introductory Award in Digital Media.

What safeguarding is in place?

Factory International are committed to safeguarding and protecting the people that use our facilities, engage in our activities and events, creating a setting where everyone feels welcome and safe. Where roles, or other paid opportunities such as Factory Academy courses, are subject to a safer recruitment process this will include scrutiny of employment or training history (where relevant), robust referencing and may include a check on criminal record history if the role involves contact with children, young people or adults at risk. This is in line with our DBS & Ex-Offenders Policy and the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

Are you an employer?

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Calling all companies and agencies in the creative industries… Can you offer skills and training opportunities to our young people at Factory International?
Please email Factory Academy →

The bigger picture in Greater Manchester

Back in 2019, we promised to put opportunities for local people at the heart of Factory International. School and college leavers, those who are not in education or employment, or on Universal Credit.

Potentially, thousands of you over the next few years.

The Greater Manchester Cultural Skills Consortium was born, a partnership between us and the following organisations:

Hallé, HOME, The Lowry, Manchester Metropolitan University, Octagon Theatre Bolton, Oldham Coliseum Theatre, Palace Theatre & Opera House, Royal Exchange Theatre, Royal Northern College of Music, Science & Industry Museum, Walk the Plank, Access Creative College, National Creative College Industries (NCCI) and Z-Arts.

We are committed to:

  • Offering more skills training in our region.
  • Ensuring our learning programme keeps pace with the industry.
  • Opening up the creative and cultural sectors to more underrepresented communities.

Factory Academy Principal Partner

Factory Academy Patron

  • AL Philanthropies

    AL Philanthropies
  • Dancer wearing a red dress surrounded by dancers in black clothing in Free Your Mind

    Free Your Mind, the official opening production for Aviva Studios, the home of Factory International © Tristram Kenton, October 2023

    Invent a better tomorrow together

    This project would not be possible without the support of our extraordinary supporters and partners.

    We are especially grateful to Aviva who are our Principal Partner for Factory Academy, as well as Andrew Law and The Law Family Charitable Foundation who have made a significant contribution to the delivery of Factory Academy.

    A huge thank you to all those who already support our mission to invent a better tomorrow together. Find out how you can support our work to use art as a catalyst for social change, creativity and innovation – both in Manchester and beyond.

    Support Us

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