Despite being a dynamic and responsive sector in many ways, the creative and cultural industries still rate poorly for both ethnic and social diversity, even at entry-level. What is stopping the sector from better representing the wider working population and its own audiences?

In this bonus podcast episode we hear a discussion between two former apprentices, Emma Blake Morsi, a Multidisciplinary Arts Producer; and Ellen Johnson, a Project Officer at Tyne and Wear Archives and Museums. The recording was made as part of our feature-length episode, Apprenticeships work for other sectors, do they work for ours?, listen here. 

Joining the discussion is Bendy Ashfield, Apprenticeships Manager at Royal Opera House; Jakki Jeffery, Head of Faculty, Creative Industries at Edinburgh College; Emma Blake Morsi, a Multidisciplinary Arts Producer; and Ellen Johnson, a Project Officer at Tyne and Wear Archives and Museums.

In episode two of our brand-new podcast, we hear from Sarah Shead, Director & Creative Producer, Spin Arts Management and Prema Mehta, Freelance Lighting Designer & founder of Stage Sight, as they discuss their experiences as freelancers within the cultural sector and the impact the pandemic has had, with our host, Rob West.

With the pandemic having a disproportionately negative effect on young people trying to build careers in the creative industries, has an already-established prejudice against hiring from disadvantaged backgrounds become even worse?

Joining the discussion is Catherine Ritman-Smith Head of Learning and Engagement, Young V&A and Alex Porter-Smith Co-founder & Head of Production at High Tide Media. During this 40-minute preview episode, they cover a range of topics from how the pandemic has highlighted some of the inequalities in society, how the cultural sector has adapted, the impact on freelancers, and much more.