Future Creatives Careers Week is back for its second year, running from 3rd to 7th February 2025. This exciting event offers a range of free workshops, talks, and presentations designed to inspire and motivate young people to pursue careers in the creative industries.
The event is open to primary, secondary and post-16 pupils, giving them the chance to explore a wide variety of creative fields. From architecture to digital media, pupils will have the opportunity to interact with professionals, gain hands-on experience, and learn about career possibilities both on and off the Isle of Wight.
Growing importance of Creative Industries
The creative sector is one of the fastest-growing industries in the UK, employing over 3 million people, or 1 in 14 jobs across the country. Last year, more than 900 young Islanders participated, reflecting the growing interest in these fields.
The 2025 event will feature over 50 different creative roles, ranging from traditional artistic disciplines to unexpected industries like the NHS, which also benefits from creative approaches.
New partnerships with 16 organisations, in addition to the 15 returning participants, will ensure a broad scope of opportunities.
Hands-on workshops for all ages
Throughout the week, pupils will participate in workshops tailored to their educational stages, from Key Stage 1 to post-16.
Younger children will engage in activities such as costume design and storytelling, while older pupils can explore careers in music, film and digital history.
Workshops are not limited to the arts. For example, New Carnival will introduce pupils to the world of event management, including practical skills in planning and production. The Shipwreck Centre offers a unique look into careers in scuba diving, combining hands-on activities with historical insights.
Accessible and free for all
Thanks to support from Arts Council England, all events during Future Creatives Careers Week are completely free. Workshops will take place both in schools and at various industry locations across the Island, making it easy for schools to participate. In some cases, transport will be provided at a reduced rate.
For those who are unsure about workshop timings, there is some flexibility. Schools can contact the organisers to discuss options that suit their schedules.
Encouraging creative careers for Island pupils
Future Creatives isn’t just about showing young people the range of jobs available within the creative industries—it’s about demonstrating what’s possible for their future careers. With so many opportunities on their doorstep, pupils are encouraged to think big and realise that living on the Isle of Wight doesn’t limit their potential to succeed.
As Claire Paul from Isle of Wight Cultural Education Partnership says, the week is “about raising awareness of the huge variety of creative careers available—and that being based on the Island is no barrier to success.”
Future Creatives Careers Week promises to be an inspiring event, showing young Islanders the wealth of opportunities that exist both locally and beyond.
For more information, schools can contact the organisers (claire@creativeisland.org) to discuss workshop options and booking requirements.
Download the PDF to see the full programme of events.
