We are looking for a Costume Buyer (NT Traineeship) to join the National Theatre’s Production Costume team
The Costume Buyer (Traineeship) will primarily work alongside the team gaining valuable experience through assisting and shadowing them in all aspects of their duties over the year. We hope that this can be tailored to the individual to provide a more personal experience, and to give them with an excellent ground to further develop a career within the industry. Throughout the entirety of the contract we will offer support and guidance for the more intangible aspects of the job, such as time management, facing new challenges and dealing with difficult scenarios.
You will receive regular one-to-ones with your line manager ( NT Costume Supervisor) to guide you through this and check progress. You will be provided with detailed feedback and targets to help you succeed.
The position will allow the trainee the opportunity to build their supplier contacts along with the chance to develop their skills and increase their knowledge and experience within a busy costume department.
The aim is that, after the year, the trainee will be able to go forward independently into the industry with enhanced skills and experience towards a future career in costume buying/assisting and supervising for theatre, film or TV.
What is involved?
The role is based at the National Theatre, Southbank, London with training given by the experienced employees of the Costume team. The position lasts for 12 months and is a full-time 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday traineeship.
The successful candidates will have the following:
- Recent experience of working within a costume or related environment.
- A strong desire to pursue a career in Costume Buying and Costume Supervising.
- Good textile and footwear knowledge along with a general interest and appreciation of costume history and contemporary trends.
- interest and appreciation of costume history and contemporary trends.
- Demonstration of good IT and finance Skills (primarily Word & Excel) with excellent organisational skills.
- Basic sewing skills and knowledge of costume construction are an advantage.
If that sounds like you, then we would love to hear from you!
Please note
The closing date for the receipt of a completed application is Thursday 30 July 2026 at 12 noon
