The job market is rapidly evolving. Automation is impacting all sectors, and entry-level roles (once the stepping stones into creative careers) are shrinking. For young professionals and apprentices, this shift can feel daunting. But alongside these challenges, new opportunities are emerging, especially in creative sectors that are embracing innovation, technology, and new ways of working.
As technology transforms the creative landscape, Creative Works is helping the next generation build skills for the future of work. From apprenticeships to mentorship programs, the organisation is building bridges between ambition and opportunity, and connecting aspiring creatives with the skills and networks they need to succeed.
“We want to make sure that every young person in London’s creative scene knows they have a place to start, grow, and make an impact,” says Alexis Michaelides, founder of Creative Works and Big Creative Education (BCE), and Managing Director of Big Creative Training (BCT).
His passion for building inclusive, forward-thinking pathways into creative industries is unwavering and vital at a time when technology and innovation are redefining the rules of work.
Where Growth is Happening: Creative Industries on the Rise
When asked which creative sectors are currently thriving, Alexis points to the rapid growth of technical roles across theatres, venues, and art spaces. “With so many interactive experiences becoming popular, venues are increasingly using digital special effects,” he explains. “That’s become another growing sector.”
Immersive theatre, live performance, and touring are key areas of expansion. “Artists in the music industry make most of their money from live events and touring now,” he adds. “Festivals—especially one-day events—are huge. Technical and production roles are where we’re seeing the most consistent growth.”
This shift has even coined a new term: Createch—where creativity meets technology. Whether it’s projection mapping, virtual set design, or integrating augmented reality into performances, Createch is fast becoming a defining feature of London’s creative economy.
Automation and the Changing Face of Entry-Level Work
The same forces driving innovation are also reshaping traditional career paths. Automation has disrupted many entry-level roles that once provided essential industry experience, affecting areas such as pre- and post-production, advertising, and content creation. “Even legal positions in music and entertainment are evolving as AI tools streamline contracts and data analysis,” says Alexis.
As routine tasks are automated, the entry point into creative careers is shifting. “Many administrative and repetitive tasks that once helped young people learn the ropes have disappeared, creating a need for new pathways that provide hands-on, practical experience,” he explains.
Despite these changes, Alexis remains optimistic. He believes the key to success lies in working with technology rather than against it, with the skills of tomorrow combining technical expertise and human creativity. Mastery of AI to enhance the creative process will be in high demand, saving time and resources while unlocking new creative possibilities. Crucially, understanding the fundamentals of creativity remains essential—no tool can replace human ingenuity.
Alexis emphasizes that the goal is not to compete with AI but to align with it, using technology to extend, rather than limit, human imagination.
Apprenticeships: Pathways into Emerging Industries
With traditional entry-level routes narrowing, apprenticeships are becoming a powerful alternative. They offer a way to gain industry experience, earn while learning, and avoid the financial burden of higher education.
“Apprenticeships are about learning on the job—learning from experienced people in real time,” Alexis says. “You don’t leave with £50,000 of student debt, and you actually get your foot in the door.”
He notes that around half of current apprenticeships are filled by new entrants to the workforce, while the other half focus on upskilling existing employees—demonstrating the model’s flexibility and value across the board.
At Creative Works, support for apprentices extends beyond just placement. “We offer a free desk for any employer taking on an apprentice for the duration of their training,” Alexis explains. “They also get ongoing support from a specialist work coach, plus access to our facilities at Big Creative Education (BCE).”
The results speak for themselves. Businesses such as Fluo Technologies and Social Disruption have successfully taken on apprentices through Creative Works, helping young people gain vital experience while strengthening their own teams with fresh ideas and enthusiasm.
Overlooked Soft Skills and Cross-Industry Demand
While technical and digital abilities are increasingly important, Alexis is quick to point out that success in the creative industries also depends on something less tangible: soft skills.
“Communication, teamwork, professionalism, meeting deadlines—these are the things people often overlook,” he says. “But nurturing relationships and understanding how to work collaboratively are what make someone employable long-term.”
As creative work becomes more interdisciplinary, these interpersonal skills can make the difference between a short-term contract and a sustainable career.
One of the most encouraging trends is the growing demand for creative skills beyond traditional arts sectors. “Every employer needs a web designer, a content creator, a digital marketing person,” Alexis explains. “That’s what we call the ‘Creative Industries Footprint’—creative skills are needed in almost every business now.”
Through BCE, Creative Works helps match apprentices with these cross-industry opportunities, offering programs that train young professionals for roles that blend creativity, communication, and technology.
Looking Ahead: The Next Decade of Creative Work
When asked how he sees the creative job market evolving over the next 5–10 years, Alexis pauses thoughtfully: “It’s always evolving,” he says. “Some areas will grow, others will shrink; it depends on how AI develops and how people choose to spend their spare time, both culturally and in terms of entertainment.”
Above all, the ability to adapt will be key. For emerging creatives, success will depend on their ability to combine timeless creative thinking with openness to new tools, mediums, and ways of working.
“Creativity has always been about innovation,” Alexis says. “The technology may change, but the essence stays the same: telling stories, solving problems, connecting with people. That’s what we’re here to nurture.”
As automation continues to reshape the landscape, the creative industries are proving that technology doesn’t have to replace creativity—it can amplify it. And thanks to initiatives such as the apprenticeship partnership between BCE and Creative Works, more young people are finding the tools, confidence, and opportunities to make their mark.
