Trainee Rigger Scheme

About the Trainee Rigger Scheme

The Trainee Rigger Scheme offers a route for those seeking a career in entertainment rigging.

Please note that the Trainee Rigger scheme is NOT a mandatory requirement of the NRC; the scheme is optional.

The scheme provides a way to identify and record the necessary training and experience needed to pursue a career in rigging, working towards the NRC Level 2 Qualification. All trainees are issued with a Trainee Rigger ID card which identifies their commitment to rigging to potential employers.

The scheme does not directly provide training: trainee riggers are expected to pursue their own work experience.

The National Rigging Advisory Group (NRAG) acts as the advisory body for the scheme.

Who should apply for the Trainee Rigger Scheme?

The scheme is suited to anyone seeking an exciting and varied career in entertainment rigging, who wishes to work towards becoming a qualified NRC Level 2 Rigger.

All applicants must be aged 18 or over

How does the scheme work?

All trainee riggers are provided with a log book detailing the specific rigging tasks they are expected to build experience in. Trainee’s should undertake work experience against these tasks, working alongside NRC qualified riggers who can sign-off experience in the trainee’s log book.

Over time trainees can track their development and readiness for assessment for the NRC Level 2 Qualification.

Health & Safety requirements

Before applying, all applicants must attend a one-day industry related health and safety course, from one of the authorised providers listed in the box on the right. These courses chosen because they meet the specific standards of the entertainment industry.

Considerations before applying

All applicants must ensure they meet the following requirements:

• Have the right attitude – you will need to be persistent, calm under pressure, personable, responsible and trustworthy.
• Be fit to work. Physical robustness is a consideration.
• Be willing to work in environments which can reach extreme temperatures and can be hard on your body.
• Be well organised, ensuring you turn up on time.
• Consider purchasing public liability insurance. Many rigging companies won’t employ freelancers without it. Colleagues will be able to advise you.
• Have discipline to complete your Log Book in order to make it an effective tool to record your learning and experience.
• Be able to carry out basic calculations.
• Be prepared to volunteer your services in order to gain experience on particular tasks which might otherwise prove difficult to attain.
• Be aged 18 or over

What does it cost?

• UK: £218 + VAT + postage
• Europe/International costs: £249
  If your employer is a member of PLASA you receive a 10% discount