Breakthrough is a 6‑month employability programme from arts charity, Artswork. It's designed as a stepping stone to get you workplace experience and all-important employment skills. This short placement gives insight into a future career in the Creative Industry, supporting your confidence and professionalism in the workplace, and helping you to break through into a career that matters to you.
You must apply via the Artswork website, and NOT via Indeed, otherwise your application will not be accepted. Copy this link into your browser for more information and to apply.
https://artswork.org.uk/opportunities/breakthrough-theatre-operations-assistant- henley-on-thames/
Eligibility criteria:
To be eligible to apply for a Breakthrough training programme role, applicants must:
- Be aged 18-25 on the 28 September 2026
- Have the right to work and be usually resident in the UK
- Available to start work on the 28 September 2026 and available for the duration of the placement (until 28 March 2027)
- Have no or little (less than one month) previous experience of working in an arts, creative or voluntary sector organisation
We particularly welcome applications from applicants who:
- Are currently not in employment, education or training
- Are disabled and/or neurodivergent
- Have experienced barriers to employment due to current or prior mental health issues
- Have experienced barriers because of racism, homophobic or transgender discrimination
- Are recent school or sixth form college leavers
- Are struggling to find work due to lack of training or employment experience
Please note that this programme is not suitable for those on a degree placement year or an MA programme.
Job Description:
The Theatre Operations Assistant roleisdesigned to provide a young person with practical experience across multiple aspects of arts and cultural venue management within a working regional theatre environment.
This is a varied, hands-on role supporting Front of House operations including the Box Office, hospitality (bar and coffee bar) and volunteer management alongside supporting the theatre’s Marketing & Fundraising Department through campaigns, audience engagement activity, event support and our annual pantomime in December.
You will also play a role in supporting the launch and development of Kenton Youth, the theatre’s new theatre education programme for young people, providing valuable experience in youth engagement and arts education within a professional theatre setting.
This role will include assisting with the:
· Day to day operations of the Box Office – selling tickets, helping customers etc
· Stock Management for bar and coffee bar
· Mechandise displays and sales
· Working Front of House for shows- ushering, Box Office, Front of House Management, coffee bar and bar
· Supporting with volunteer programme – training new volunteers, rota administration etc
· Poster and flyer management
· Brochure distribution
· Supporting with VIP press night for pantomime
· Supporting with fundraising events at the theatre
· Administration relating to the theatre education programme – Kenton Youth
As a small independent theatre, we are able to shape the role around the individual’s interests, strengths and longer-term aspirations as much as possible, allowing you to gain experience in areas most relevant to your personal and professional development.
The role will be based at the Kenton Theatre
Skills and Development:
Candidates should be working towards:
· A genuine interest in the arts and live events.
· Customer service experience
· Demonstrable administration experience
· Excellent verbal and interpersonal communication skills and good written communication skills.
· High level of IT literacy – Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint
· Flexibility in relation to duties and working hours, which will include evenings and weekends.
Desirable but not essential:
· Arts marketing experience
· Experience of ticketing or CRM systems
· Fundraising experience
About the employer:
The Kenton Theatre is a vibrant and historic theatre that has been entertaining audiences since 1805. From toe-tapping music and gripping drama to comedy, dance and family-friendly shows, The Kenton offers something for everyone in its intimate 240-seat auditorium. This beloved venue is also a hub for local community groups and private events, bringing people together in celebration of culture. With over 250 performances a year and an annual income of £850k+, The Kenton plays a vital role in the cultural landscape of Henley-on-Thames and the surrounding area.
Pay: £12.71 per hour
Work Location: In person
