The Next Step for Project X

Project X was an exciting and successful pilot scheme developed by UK Rigging in 2022. The scheme was designed by UK Rigging to explore new and innovative ways to address the current rigger shortage by supporting those who wish to enter the rigging industry on a freelance basis. The scheme offered financial support, planned training, mentoring and rare access to on-the-job experience. 

The project received over 500 applications over 12 months, and successfully produced a group of NRC L2 riggers, with more waiting in the wings to take their NRC assessment. Thanks to the generous support from riggers, venues and clients, the project was able to deliver on-the-job rigging experience in a more consistent, in depth and supported way than previously possible within the freelance rigging industry. 

Due to the success of the pilot, UK Rigging has now launched a revised scheme known as the Rigging Assistant Scheme (RAS) which is due to launch in late March 2024. While still drawing on all of the lessons learned from Project X, the RAS will take a different format, and will initially focus on venues based in the North West of England. 

UK Rigging would like to issue a huge thank you and well done to all of the Project X participants and mentors who entered an unknown pilot scheme with such enthusiasm and commitment. As the scheme enters its next stage of development, we look forward to seeing where 2024 will lead. For all of the most up to date news, including where to register your interest, please visit the RAS page here.