Barnsley Libraries calls for young creatives to join Young Producers Programme

Barnsley Libraries are looking for ten talented and enthusiastic 14 to 16-year-olds to join our Young Producers Programme – an exciting opportunity for young people to lead their own artistic project and help shape the future of arts and culture in Barnsley.

The programme, funded by the Great Childhood’s Ambition and as part of the Barnsley Libraries’ NPO programme, will give young people the chance to develop a wide range of creative and professional skills. With a series of masterclasses led by industry professionals, they’ll learn everything from writing project briefs and event management to social media and marketing, artist liaison, curating exhibitions, and sound and lighting for events.

The young producers will also take part in creative workshops exploring different art forms – from songwriting and printmaking to photography – designed to spark ideas and inspire their final project.

Using the knowledge and skills they’ve developed, participants will go on to co-produce their own artist-led project, taking it from concept to delivery. With support from the NPO team, they’ll gain real-world and hands-on experience of commissioning artists, running events, and creating something designed by young people, for young people.

The programme will not only open up new career pathways in the creative industries but also boost participants’ confidence and allow them to make a real impact on arts and culture in Barnsley.

Cllr Wendy Cain, Cabinet Spokesperson for Communities and Public Health, said: “We’re really excited to be launching the Young Producers Programme as a fantastic opportunity for our young people to grow their creative and professional skills, while shaping the kind of arts and cultural events they want to see in their community. It’s also a great way for us to make sure our libraries continue to be vibrant, inclusive spaces – shaped by the people who use them.”

Programme dates at Library @ The Lightbox

• Wednesday 29 October 11am to 4pm
• Thursday 30 October 11am to 4pm
• Friday 31 October 11am to 4pm
• Saturday 1 November 11am to 3.30pm
• Monday 10 November 3.30pm to 5pm
• Monday 8 December 3.30pm to 5pm
• Monday 12 January 3.30pm to 5pm

*Young Producers will need to attend all sessions

How to apply

To apply please email barnsleylibrariesNPO@barnsley.gov.uk with:

• Your name and age
• Why you want to join the Young Producers Programme (max 250 words)
• An idea for an event or artist commission at the Library (max 250 words)

Applicants will be shortlisted, and we’ll let you know the outcome by 6 October. Please get in touch with the team if you’d like more information or a chat about the programme by emailing BarnsleyLibrariesNPO@barnsley.gov.uk.