STEP 9

12-month paid traineeships for young East Londoners wanting to step into careers in the creative & cultural sectors

This autumn, our Shared Training and Employment Programme STEP returns for its 9th iteration. Find out more and apply to secure your entry-level role in the creative industries this 2023.

STEP is a paid traineeship designed to get young East Londoners aged 18-30 into roles in the creative and cultural industries and increase employment opportunities for those brimming with new ideas, creative energy and timely perspectives.

Through STEP you will be matched with one of our committed local employers to experience an entry-level role and get paid a London Living Wage (£11.95/ph) or above salary over a 12-month training programme. Unlike a regular entry-level role, through this popular programme, you'll be supported in your development as you get your foot in the door, develop a range of skills and creative approaches, grow as part of a group with similar passions, and take part in monthly professional development workshops.

We’ll also connect you with a specialist industry mentor, provide personal career coaching and continue to support your creative employment journey as you graduate the programme as an alumnus and join our wider creative community.

This year we are offering 12 placements from the London College of Fashion, Stylus, Bianca Saunders, Magnum Photos, Hope & Glory, Grimshaw Foundation, Alexander Whitley, and Secret Cinema.

Scroll to the bottom of the page to view and download the job descriptions. Sectors in focus for STEP 9 include:

  • Fashion & Design
  • Museums & Galleries
  • Editorial, Advertising, PR, Marketing & Publishing
  • Theatre & Dance

Not sure which suits you the most? Take our STEP 9 personality quiz to find out.

About STEP


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Applications have closed.Find out about STEP 9


Good Growth Hub logo thumbnail.png

This programme is delivered by the Good Growth Hub – a creative careers hub in east London run by A New Direction. The Hub is funded by the London Legacy Development Cooperation (LLDC) with investment from the Foundation for Future London, through the East Bank Partnerships’ New Talent Future Leaders programme – dedicated to the growth of STEP and other Good Growth Hub activities.

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With thanks to our STEP 9 employment partners

Alexander Whitley.png Bianca Saunders .png Hope & Glory (1).jpg LCF .png Magnum Photos.jpg Secret Cinema.png