Gateacre students learn life-experience in music industry production day

24 students at Gateacre School were given an insight into the music industry on a Music Industry Production Day. 

Students learned about the production equipment, how it is set up, and the different skills required in the day presented by an audio-visual business, Adlib, in conjunction with the Liverpool City Region Music Board and the Professional Light and Sound Association (PLASA). 

Gateacre students also gained an understanding of the level of commitment needed to work in the events industry. 

The day began with a briefing and involved all the students assisting in unloading £500,000 worth of equipment off the trucks and into the school’s theatre. 

During the equipment set-up, the students were informed about each item and how it all came together to produce a show. 

The day also had an evening concert. The school had seven of its music bands from various years playing, plus established local headline artist Silent K.  

Doors opened at 6.30pm, and the bands played through until 9.30pm.  

The students also assisted with the breakdown of the equipment and loading the trucks. 

Adlib’s managing director and ex-Gateacre student, Andy Dockerty, said: “Over the years, these events have been very successful for us.  

“We must have attracted over 50 youngsters into the industry from these events at Gateacre School, many of whom are still with us.  

“This event also leads to work experience opportunities for those interested and committed. Most importantly, it provides an honest insight into the careers and opportunities within the sector”. 

Head of music at Gateacre School, Mark Newns, said: “We are extremely privileged to continue our long-standing relationship with Adlib.  

It’s a great day for all the students involved, whether backstage or performing. This day is very much a highlight of the school calendar.  

“It’s a wonderful occasion for our students to work alongside professionals and form links, encouraging possible future careers.  

“Being able to involve students in the technical aspect, as well as the performing roles in making this event happen, is both fantastic and memorable.  

“The opportunity to work with such state-of-the-art equipment is a privilege and something our students really remember.” 

Gareth Jones, headteacher at Gateacre, added: “The day creates such excitement around school that we can’t wait to do it all again next year!” 

PLASA and WeMakeEvents commented: “In the current situation, whereby organisations are struggling to find the skills needed for the events sector, it is fantastic to be collaborating with member companies such as Adlib, who are taking the initiative and presenting opportunities and experiences to youngsters at school ages. 

“This real-life experience is invaluable and will hopefully act as an instigator to attract new talent into the sector.” 

Kevin McManus from Liverpool City Region Music Board said: “This is an amazing project, and we would like to applaud both Adlib and Gateacre School for their work on this.  

“As a board, we are keen to ensure that young people are aware of the wide range of careers in the music industry and the routes into these roles.  

“The music sector is an integral part of the local economy, and through programmes like this, we can ensure the future supply of a skilled workforce, which can bring further growth to the sector.”