Digital Learning Skills Training at the White Rock
It was recently announced that the White Rock Theatre, operated by The Guildhall Trust, is to receive £25,000, awarded by East Sussex County Council from the Hastings Skills Capital Fund. The funding is to be used to create a bespoke Digital Learning Suite for the delivery and development of digital skills training that will help nurture and retain local creative talent.
Altering the layout and renovating a currently under-utilised space within the venue, the new learning facility will be equipped with high-quality technology including a large digital screen, sound recording equipment, high-speed internet connection and Mac minicomputers with Adobe Creative Suite software.
The Learning Suite will provide training in sound, lighting, production and design, digital marketing. There is also a plan for bitesize workshops that will support local creative development and deliver an expanded work experience offer. The multifunctional space will also be available to other creative organisations and groups within the region, making it a valuable asset for the Hastings community and helping the creative sector to recruit and retain key talent where it is needed.
The project is one of eleven to receive a share in £1 million of funding from UK Government, awarded by East Sussex County Council from the Hastings and Rother Skills Capital Funds, to help enhance the local skills and training offer in line with the priorities of Skills East Sussex, the local multi-agency strategic skills board.
The board aims to support the local economy and residents by building a skilled workforce and offering relevant training for young people and adults. It also focuses on maximising the benefits of future opportunities related to new technology and net zero.
Work on installing The Learning Suite will start in January and is expected to be completed by the end of March. It is the latest in a series of investments in the White Rock by The Guildhall Trust since it took over the operation of the venue last year.
Other improvements include creating a new Studio performance space with new flooring, lighting, bars and the addition of a dressing room. The renovated Studio space is also available to hire for meetings and social events. A full rock PA system has also been installed in the main auditorium, and this is already attracting a wide range of artists back into the venue.
Chief Executive Officer of The Guildhall Trust, Andy Grays says: “The Hastings community has been so warm in its welcome to The Guildhall Trust since February, it’s fantastic to be developing these learning facilities and delivering what we always promised we would. The support of the community is vital to the venue’s continued success, and we encourage everyone to make sure they are signed up to our mailing list and follow us on socials. The future of White Rock looks very exciting!”
To find out more about The White Rock and The Guildhall Trust, and sign up to the mailing list, head to: whiterocktheatre.org.uk
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