The Octagon Theatre

We are a close team who are passionate about theatre, the arts and Somerset. The team works across both our venues, The Octagon Theatre & Westlands Entertainment Venue in Yeovil.  ​

Come and work with us and help us continue to make the Octagon Theatre and Westlands Entertainment Venue a fabulous place to be! Our staff are important to us, as without them we couldn’t achieve our vision of enriching the cultural and creative life of Yeovil and Somerset.

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Current Vacancies

Arts Engagement & Outreach Apprentice

Salary: £ National Minimum Wage
Hours: 5 days per week (37 hours per week)

Contract: Fixed Term for 18 Months (Apprenticeship)
Closing date: 18th October 2026, midnight

The Arts Engagement & Outreach team based at the Octagon Theatre & Westlands Entertainment Venue, is part of Somerset Council's vibrant arts and entertainment service, working with communities across the county to make creativity accessible to everyone. Through a diverse programme of workshops, performances, projects and events, the team helps people of all ages and backgrounds enjoy, learn and participate in the arts, supporting wellbeing, education and community connection.

The Octagon & Westlands Arts Engagement & Outreach team  delivers opportunities that inspire creativity, celebrate local talent and bring high-quality arts experiences to communities across Somerset. Last year alone, the service engaged thousands of residents through a wide range of creative activities, from music and theatre to community arts projects and learning programmes.

This is an exciting opportunity to start your career in the arts while making a real difference to local communities. As an Arts Engagement & Outreach Apprentice, you'll support the planning, promotion and delivery of creative projects, workshops, performances and events that encourage people to engage with the arts. You'll join a passionate and supportive team that believes creativity can transform lives, raise aspirations and bring people together. Alongside gaining valuable hands-on experience, you'll help ensure the arts remain accessible and inclusive for communities across Somerset.

How You'll Make a Difference

• Help deliver creative projects, events and activities that connect people with arts and culture across Somerset.
• Support the promotion of programmes through social media, websites, newsletters and other communications, helping reach new audiences.
• Build positive relationships with schools, community groups, artists, volunteers and partner organisations to strengthen engagement and participation.
• Assist with administration, bookings, data management and feedback collection to help services run smoothly and measure their impact.
• Contribute ideas and support projects that encourage more people to discover, enjoy and participate in the arts.

 What You'll Bring

• Strong communication skills and the confidence to work with a wide range of people.
• Good organisational skills, attention to detail and the ability to manage tasks effectively.
• A positive, proactive attitude and a genuine willingness to learn and develop new skills.
• Confidence using IT systems and digital tools, with an interest in communications and social media.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, while providing excellent customer service.

 Apprenticeship Information

As part of this role, you will complete the Level 3 Cultural Learning and Participation Apprenticeship with Creative Alliance.

This 18-month apprenticeship combines structured learning with hands-on experience, helping you develop skills in arts engagement, community participation, event delivery and communications.

You'll work alongside experienced colleagues, supporting creative projects and activities that help people across Somerset access and enjoy the arts.

This is a fantastic opportunity to gain a nationally recognised qualification and take the first step towards a career in the arts, culture or community sector.

Please note: Applicants must have GCSE Maths and English at Grade 4/C or above (or equivalent) and be eligible to undertake the apprenticeship programme.

How to apply:

The Octagon Theatre & Westlands Entertainment Venue's Arts Engagement & Outreach programme is managed and funded by Somerset Council, as such applicants should apply via Somerset Council's recruitment platform.
To apply upload your CV and cover letter to the Somerset Council website. 

Apply Now

Deadline: 18 October 2026, midnight

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