With the rising number of young people not in education, employment, or training, it is more important than ever to offer new and inspiring career pathways. Many young people possess untapped creative potential, but lack the resources, self-belief, or knowledge to pursue it as a viable career.
That’s where Northampton Town Council’s first-ever Creative Careers Week came into play.
The Creative Careers Week was designed to engage and inspire young people not in employment or education. Over the course of a week, young people explored the world of creative industries, from music to photography, guided by industry professionals. Through interactive workshops, mentoring sessions, and networking opportunities, the project aimed to make creative careers more accessible, opening a world of opportunities for young people who may have previously felt these paths were out of reach.
Breaking down barriers to creative careers
Louise Troy, Shaw Trust Choices Advisor, first identified key barriers that prevent many young people from entering the creative sector: a lack of self-confidence, limited knowledge of available career options, insufficient contacts, and a lack of funding or diverse role models.
“It was clear that more needed to be done to inspire and educate young people on creative careers,” Louise explained. “The aim was to demystify the creative career. I met young people who wanted to enter the industry but found it too daunting or did not know where to start.”
With the backing of Northampton Town Council, which provided crucial funding, the project set out to break down these barriers and is a perfect example of bringing communities together to offer essential support to young people.
Hands-on experience and real-world impact
Throughout the week, participants engaged in hands-on workshops with experienced creatives, gaining practical skills and invaluable insights into the industry. The week culminated in a festival of art and performances, showcasing the young people’s talents, providing an opportunity to network with industry professionals, but most importantly, an opportunity to celebrate creativity.
The results were overwhelmingly positive. Young people reported significant boosts in confidence and a clearer understanding of the creative career options available to them.
One young attendee commented “I enjoyed all five of the days and felt that the week got even better as it went along. Getting to be a part of a group of creative young people in a welcoming and nourishing environment worked wonders for my confidence.”
Another young person, who discovered their passion for singing during the week, shared: “Performing on stage brought out my confidence and made me want to pursue a musical career.”
Seeing the young people take on activities with both hands and flourish, proved that the right opportunities and support can change lives.
A collective community effort
The success of Creative Careers Week was a collective effort between local creative partners, venues, businesses, and Northampton Town Council.
Connor Osborn, Community Engagement Officer for Northampton Town Council, praised the initiative:
“This project involved so many creative partners, venues, local businesses, and a cohort of inspiring young people. Being able to support this innovative project through our grants fund meant that we were able to see what Northampton’s creative industry can really do. The passing of skills and knowledge to the next generation of creatives is imperative, and it was a pleasure to be a part of that responsibility.”
This sense of community collaboration has lasting benefits. Not only did participants gain firsthand experience, but they were also exposed to a network of professionals that they can now tap into as they continue their career journey.
The broader importance of creative careers
While careers advice and guidance in schools play an essential role in shaping futures, creative career paths can often be overlooked. Yet, the creative industry is one of the most dynamic sectors of the UK economy, contributing over £100 billion annually and supporting two million jobs.
Beyond the economic benefits, engaging in creative careers has been shown to reduce stress, enhance emotional wellbeing, and promote a higher level of job satisfaction, thanks to the flexibility, autonomy, and work-life balance it often provides.
The importance of fostering creativity extends beyond individual success. Creative skills are among the top five most in-demand soft skills in the workforce. Furthermore, creativity is crucial for building empathy, celebrating diversity, and strengthening communities.
By showcasing these pathways, Creative Careers Week has proven that engaging young people in creative industries not only empowers them but also revitalises communities. This model could and should be adopted by other local authorities looking to make a positive impact on the lives of young people and the wider community.
A lasting legacy
Creative Careers Week was a huge success, with many young people leaving more confident and inspired to pursue their creative pathways. As one young person reflected:
“Making friends with everyone and finding my passion for singing has been amazing.”
The message is clear: creative careers are not only viable—they are essential. By giving young people, the tools, knowledge, and networks they need, they can unlock their potential and build a brighter future. The success of Northampton’s Creative Careers Week is proof that with the right support, young people can thrive in the creative industries, benefiting both themselves and their communities.
A huge thank you to Jack Save, Dylan Storey, Christopher Troy, Alexander Lockhart, Helen Clifford, Danielle Corr, The Performing Rooms, Isus Calmellow, Janan Fiefield, Burns Street Studios, Khandie Photography, Umbrella Fair, The Art Jam, Growing Nai, The Happy Hood, Louise Troy, Rozism, Velvet Engine, Afriene, G Karta, NMPAT Jazz band, DJ Aon, Helen Verril, Art Jam, Rebecca Dugan, Talisha Duggan, Marj Wright, Paul White.
