Props Technician

On a props technician apprenticeship course, you’ll help source, organise, maintain and make props for film, television and theatre productions.

A props expert assists in acquiring, using, and maintaining costumes and hand props for film, television, and theatre productions. You might work on set, in workshops, backstage, or on location as an apprentice.

Whilst working, you must be adaptable, versatile, and capable of learning quickly. As part of your job, you may be needed to create prop rooms, get props to set, catalogue props, make props, construct and dress sets, collaborate with the actors and featured backdrop artists, remove and clean sets, and check rented props back in. 

On set, you may be asked to assist art department colleagues. You may be asked to work irregular and unsociable hours to meet production demands.

What you’ll learn

On a props technician apprenticeship course, you’ll learn to:

• Choose items that are historically accurate for your designs.
• Design appropriate work and storage spaces in collaboration with the props crew.
• Work with a team to dress the set or location according to the design and dressing brief.
• Work within the constraints of your set or location.
• Work efficiently, safely, and timely to meet the dressing schedule.
• Use the proper tools and equipment to complete the required building or dressing tasks.
• Work effectively as part of a team to meet the requirements of the strike.
• Pay attention to the directions provided by the Chargehands and Storeman.
• Follow current health and safety laws and organisational standards while striking a set.
• Reduce the risk to the cast and crew using health and safety expertise.
• Choose the right tools and equipment for the job, and use them safely on set, location, and in production workshops.
• Develop and maintain one’s own knowledge and expertise in props.
• Work within the constraints of the production’s budget and timeline.

Entry requirements

You’ll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship.
• Apprentices without level 2 English and maths will need to achieve this before taking the end-point assessment.

Assessment methods

The End Point Assessment comprises two distinct assessment methods: 

• Observation
• Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio

Duration, level, subjects and potential salary upon completion

Apprenticeship standard

More information about the Level 3 Props Technician Apprenticeship standard can be found here.

Apprenticeship end point assessment

For more information about the End Point Assessment Process, please read the Institute of Apprenticeships’ information page.