UK – The relaunched ABTT Apprenticeship Network makes its in-person debut on 4 June at Alexandra Palace, London, bringing together apprentices, employers, training providers and industry professionals for the first time.
The Association of British Theatre Technicians (ABTT) has announced that the relaunched ABTT Apprenticeship Network will hold its first ever in-person event at the ABTT Theatre Show on Thursday 4 June 2026 at Alexandra Palace, London.
The session, Launching the New ABTT Apprenticeship Network, takes place at 2pm in the Preevue Seminar Room. Speakers from Chichester Festival Theatre, the Royal Ballet & Opera, the Royal Shakespeare Company and Birmingham Hippodrome will lead a conversation about the Network’s next chapter and what it means for apprentices and the organizations that support them. The session is followed directly by the first Apprenticeship Network Social.
The ABTT Apprenticeship Network was relaunched in February 2026 during National Apprenticeship Week, reaffirming ABTT’s commitment to apprentices, employers, training providers and everyone involved in supporting apprenticeships across theatre, live events and the creative industries. The Network brings together current and prospective apprentices, employers, training providers and industry professionals to create a supportive community focused on skills development, professional growth and knowledge-sharing.
Ahead of the relaunch, ABTT surveyed the Network community to understand what support would be most valuable. That feedback has shaped the Network’s new program, which includes:
Quarterly in-person networking events
A program of online activity to support professional development and peer connection
A core suite of CPD resources, including short, accessible videos
Exploration of on-demand e-learning to support flexible learning for apprentices
The ABTT Theatre Show also marks the first presentation of the ABTT Apprentice of the Year Award, which celebrates the achievements and outstanding contributions of apprentices working across theatre and live events, recognizing exceptional commitment, skill and professionalism.
Liz Sillett, CEO of the ABTT, said: “The re-launch of the ABTT Apprenticeship Network reflects our commitment to listening to apprentices and responding to what they’ve told us they need. By creating more opportunities to connect in person, learn online and access relevant CPD resources, we aim to build a supportive and inclusive network that helps apprentices thrive at every stage of their career.”
ABTT Apprenticeship Network representative Jack Davies added: “Apprenticeships are a vital route into our industry but they can sometimes feel isolating. This Network is about bringing people together, sharing knowledge and making sure apprentices know they are supported, valued, and part of a wider professional community.”
Alongside the Network launch session, the Theatre Show offers a dedicated program of apprenticeship and careers content across both days:
Demystifying Apprenticeships (Wednesday 3 June, 3pm, Preevue Seminar Room) representatives from Chichester Festival Theatre, the Royal Ballet & Opera and Nottingham Playhouse explore how apprenticeships work and what they can offer
ABTT Apprentice of the Year Award presentation (Wednesday 3 June, 6pm) part of the ABTT Awards & Social on the Terrace, sponsored by TAIT
Careers and Professional Development Hub (Stand H14, both days) a dedicated drop-in space for one-to-one conversations with working professionals on apprenticeships, training pathways, CV advice and more; no appointment needed
The ABTT Theatre Show takes place on 3 and 4 June 2026 at Alexandra Palace, London. Admission is free. Register at abtt.org.uk/abtt-theatre-show/.
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