a headshot of Laura smiling with long dark brown hair and a black and white striped shirt

Q&A with Creative Access’ Head of Programmes

Posted on February 14, 2020

We are so happy to welcome the newest member to the Creative Access team, Laura, who has joined us as our Head of Programmes! In honour of her joining, we arranged a Q&A with her to learn more about her role and what brought her to Creative Access, and ask what advice she would give to young creatives just starting out…

First of all, welcome, Laura! How are you enjoying your time here so far?

I’m settling in really well thanks, it’s such a lovely team and supportive environment to work within. I’m only in my second week and it’s been a busy start including two trips to Bristol already! I’ve especially enjoyed learning about the breath and depth of Creative Access’ work, working with a range of creative organisations as well as matching mentees with mentors. Of course, I’m still getting up to speed with everything!

How would you describe your role as Head of Programmes?

It’s a brand new role which is exciting, including outreach – so as many people as possible from under-represented careers pursue creative careers; and then support – so they can progress and flourish once they secure their first role. My role involves managing programmes, maintaining existing relationships and building new partnerships.

“My role involves managing programmes, maintaining existing relationships and building new partnerships.”

What brought you to this career path?

My background is in Art History, Anthropology and Youth Work. I worked at Tate for 10 years, starting off as an Intern: Youth Programmes in the Learning team at Tate Britain and then as Customer Services Assistant for Tate Enterprises Ltd. in their Publishing team. I worked as Assistant Curator: Young People’s Programmes and then as Curator where I led on the delivery of the cross-arts education programme for young people aged 15 – 25 years, which engaged 20,000 visitors per year.

In 2018, I completed an MA in Applied Anthropology, Community and Youth Work at Goldsmiths University, whilst on sabbatical leave. I then worked as Employment Manager, Create Jobs Programme at A New Direction to oversee the delivery of various strategic projects to support the next generation of creative talent and bring in new ideas and energy to the creative and cultural sector. I am passionate about making positive change, inspiring young people and this new role at Creative Access’ is well suited to my interests and experience.

“I am passionate about making positive change, inspiring young people”

What advice would you give to young creatives at the start of their careers?

  1. Be kind and respectful – treat others how you wish to be treated
  2. Do your research into individuals, organisations and projects
  3. Prioritise self care, your physical and mental heath comes first
  4. Don’t compromise on your values and what matters to you most
  5. Keep in touch – your network is your net worth

“Prioritise self care, your physical and mental heath comes first”

What’s one interesting thing about you that’s not on your CV?

I have a really loud laugh which sometimes shocks people! It occasionally gets me into trouble but generally people seem to laugh along too.