How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- volunteering
- applying directly
- specialist training courses
University
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:
- sound engineering
- music technology
- media technology
- electrical or electronic engineering
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You could take a college course to develop your knowledge and skills before looking for a position as a sound trainee.
Courses include:
- music technology
- sound engineering
- creative digital media production
- T Level in Media, Broadcast and Production
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
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Apprenticeship
You could start training in this job by applying for an apprenticeship that covers sound engineering skills.
Apprenticeships include:
- Creative Industries Production Technician Level 3
- Broadcast and Media Systems Technical Operator Level 3
- Audio Visual Technician Level 5
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
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
It's possible to start out as an assistant roadie, loading and unloading sound equipment, and helping to set it up. This would allow you to learn some of the skills you need from experienced sound technicians.
Volunteering
You could look for work experience placements with larger broadcasters like the BBC, ITV and Channel 4.
You could also get experience by:
- working on student or community film or radio projects
- setting up or 'rigging' sound equipment for amateur theatre, local bands and smaller festivals
- helping out in a recording studio
These are good ways to make contacts, learn new skills and to hear about job opportunities.
Direct Application
You could apply directly for jobs but employers will expect you to have a lot of knowledge and experience in sound technology and equipment, and the science of sound.
Other Routes
You could complete a training course with a specialist course provider.
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Career tips
As a trainee, it's important to be well organised and and have good time management skills to be on set or location when required.
You'll also need to be adaptable, able to deal with background sound distractions and be willing to ask questions in order to learn quickly.
Further information
You can get more advice about careers and training for TV and film from:
You can find out more about creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.