How to become a prop maker
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
University
You could take a foundation degree or degree in:
- prop making
- scenic arts
- production arts
- art and design
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- a foundation diploma in art and design
- at least 1 A level, or equivalent, for a foundation degree
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You can do a college course to get some of the skills needed in this job. Course examples include:
- Level 2 Diploma in Art and Design
- Level 2 Certificate in Carpentry
- Level 3 Certificate in Creative Craft
- Level 3 Diploma in 3D Design and Crafts
Entry requirements
You may need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
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Apprenticeship
You could do a props technician advanced apprenticeship.
The apprenticeship takes 18 to 24 months to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Work
You could start by working in a theatre as a props assistant or technician. In film and TV you would start as an art department trainee.
Practical experience is usually essential to get an assistant job.
Volunteering
Volunteering for student productions, festivals and amateur theatre is a good way to get experience and make contact with people working in the industry, which could help when looking for jobs.
Direct Application
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Career tips
Your creative talent and model-making skills will often be more important than formal qualifications.Further information
You can find out more about working in props from ScreenSkills.
You can also get more information on working in the creative industries from Discover Creative Careers.