A hands-on, industry-focused funded Skills Bootcamp designed to introduce you to the creative and technical world of Computer-aided design (CAD). Learn how to create detailed digital drawings for live events, theatre, exhibitions and more, no prior experience needed. All taught through a mix of demonstrations, practical tasks, group discussion and independent project work, with access to proper CAD workstations and industry software.
CAD for the Creative Industries
Apply today!About this course
Overview
- Duration: 2 Weeks / 60 hours (Course Schedules)
- Frequency: 5 Days per Week (Monday - Friday)
- Fee: Fully Funded by UK Government
- Start Dates & Locations:
Hertfordshire
- Cohort A: 14/07/2025 - Location TBC
West Yorkshire
- Cohort A: 08/09/2025 - Production Park, Wakefield
Topics covered
- The essentials of AutoCAD and digital drafting workflows
- Creating detailed drawings for live performance environments
- Version control, model organisation and professional best practice
- Customising your CAD interface for speed and productivity
- Building a portfolio-ready venue and show model
Who’s it for?
- A recent graduate, college leaver or career switcher with an interest in production, live events, theatre, exhibitions or immersive experience design, but no prior experience with CAD software.
- Freelancers, technicians and crew wanting to develop formal skills in CAD to improve workflows, increase job opportunities or strengthen bids for larger projects.
- Anyone interested in a career on the technical side of bringing ideas to life through digital drafting.
- No experience necessary, just a willingness to learn.
Course Outcomes
You’ll walk away with a finished technical drawing project to showcase in your portfolio as well as the skills and confidence to apply for entry-level roles or apprenticeships and a certificate.
Register Your Interest
Spaces will be limited, so we would recommend registering your interest using the form below and be the first to receive course updates.
Course Leader
David Ripley
David has been working in the backstage areas of the performance industry for over 40 years, most recently as Head of Technical & Production at The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama.
He has worked across the UK as a Lighting and Sound Designer, Production Manager and Venue Consultant.
Since 2000 he has provided training for production professionals in AutoCAD as cad4theatre. He has written 5 editions of his book, AutoCAD – A Handbook for theatre users and provided for many of the UK’s theatres and training establishments. He is an AutoCAD Alpha/Beta Tester, an Accredited Autodesk Professional and Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.
He has twice won an ABTT Award for products; in 2004 with LE Mark for the ‘Bar-Fly’ and more recently, in 2024 for ‘The Counterweight Caddy’ currently in development.
