Polka will be back running our extremely popular Work Experience Week from Monday 22 June to Friday 26 June 2026.
Open to Years 11 & 12, during the week students will:
- Spend time with all departments at Polka including production, marketing, fundraising, creative learning and visitor services
- Learn about how theatre for children is made and experience how an arts organisation is run
- Watch current productions at Polka
- Take part in practical workshops
- Present a production pitch to Polka staff at the end of the week
“I’ve learnt about so many roles in theatre I didn’t know even existed before this!” – Work Experience Student, 2024
Applications for Work Experience Week 2026 are now closed. To be notified when applications for Work Experience Week 2027 open, please fill in the Expression of Interest form below.
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How to apply Every year, we receive a high volume of applications and as such, we would love to learn more about you and why you want to take part in our Work Experience week.
Step 1: Fill in and submit an application form by 9am on Friday 27 February 2026.
Step 2: Attend a Meet and Greet Day at Polka on either Thursday 9 April or Saturday 11 April. This is a chance for us to meet you and for you to get a feel for Work Experience week.
Please note, that we invite all prospective candidates and attendance does not guarantee you a place.
Step 3: All candidates will be notified of the outcome of their application by Friday 1 May.
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Who can apply? Work Experience is open to anyone in School Years 11 and 12.
We particularly support our local secondary schools in placing their students for work experience, and because of this priority is given to students who live or study in Merton, Wandsworth or Croydon.
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What should I put in my application? On the application form, you will be asked a series of questions designed to help us get to know you.
As there is a large demand for placements at Polka we highly recommend that relevant experience is clearly stated in the application form, along with what you would hope to gain from a placement.
Remember, Work Experience at Polka runs across multiple departments, so it’s important you demonstrate an interest in the wider world of theatre, not just in acting.
As part of the application form, you will be asked to answer the following questions, for which you may wish to prepare answers:
- What are you hoping to do once you leave school/college/education?
- What extra-curricular activities do you take part in?
- Tell us about your hobbies and interests. (100 – 200 words)
- What do you hope to gain from Polka Theatre’s Work Experience? (200 – 300 words)
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I’m having trouble completing my application. What should I do? If you require information in a different format, you want to apply via video or audio application, or just need some help, please contact Lizzie, Schools Manager, on lizzie@polkatheatre.com, or call 020 8545 8362.
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When will I hear back about my application? All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application by Friday 1 May.
“It was an amazing experience, very well organised. I felt excited to come back every day. Everyone at Polka was lovely and nice to work with.” – Work Experience Student, 2025
Please note, unfortunately, we are unable to offer work placements outside of the dates above. We do not offer work experience for students in Year 10.
Other opportunities for students
PolkaGrads
We have just launched our PolkaGrads scheme!
For those aged 12+ who want to share their voice on all things theatre. Opportunities include attending research & development sessions for our productions, reviewing shows, meeting casts and creative teams and attending Polka’s Board meetings.
For more information, check out the link below or email Jemima.
Volunteering
Over the age of 16 and want to get involved at Polka? Why not join our fantastic and friendly team of volunteers!
As a registered charity we can’t operate without volunteers and we’re always looking for new people to join or team. For more information of the scheme and to apply, check out the volunteering webpage below.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us on volunteer@polkatheatre.com.