Oldham teens land dream work experience at Christmas parade

When it comes to work experience, most teenagers expect to spend a week in an office, a factory or perhaps a shop.

But for a group of young creative enthusiasts from Oldham, the festive streets of Manchester proved to be the perfect place for them to try out their skills and learn some new ones. 

The teens were invited by Carnival arts organisation Global Grooves to take part in Manchester's annual Christmas parade.  

Whilst some joined wardrobe and make-up, applying festive glitter and helping musicians and dancers into their costumes, others worked as technical crew, lending support with the Global Grooves' parading puppets. 

The teenagers are all taking part in a free programme, called Creative Careers, which runs on Monday nights at The Old Museum in Oldham. 

Delivered by Tameside organisation Global Grooves, the nine-week project offers expert-led sessions in everything from photography to theatre making and arts project management, as well as hands-on work placements at live events around Greater Manchester.  

Next February, young people from the course will work alongside Global Grooves at Oldham's light festival, Illuminate. 

For 17-year-old Oldhamer Rowan (pictured below), it's been a whirlwind of experiences. She said: “This is all brand new to me! We’ve done all kinds of different creative workshops including special FX make up, which was super fun. 

"It’s great to have been at the Christmas parade with Global Grooves supporting the puppet performers as well as getting involved in the wardrobe and make-up department too”.  

Evan, also 17 and from Oldham, can also see the benefits, saying: “I’ve definitely come out of my shell more and have spoken to people way more than I would have without this course”. 
 
Holly Prest, from Greenfield, is artistic director of Global Grooves, and is overseeing Creative Careers sessions in Oldham, as well as Rochdale and Tameside.  

She said: "Creative Careers is a fantastic opportunity to meet new people and join a network of young creatives in your local area. 

"We have been running the scheme for two years and we know it works, because former course members now work for us and our creative partners  are studying creative courses at university. 

"Taking part in Manchester's Christmas parade was a once in a lifetime work placement and everyone had a great day. 

"There are a handful of places remaining for this year's sessions and so young people can still sign up. This totally free course is an absolute must for young people in Oldham who are interested in a creative career."