This article follows Lara as she reflects on her 6-month internship with Stopgap, through the Artswork Breakthrough scheme. She shares how her passion for movement and her neurodivergent perspective shaped her journey into the creative industry, and how the role of Creative Learning Assistant allowed her to explore different aspects of creative work, while building confidence and developing new skills.
Listen to Lara reading via Soundcloud
Hello! My name is Lara, a 2025 contemporary dance graduate from the University of Roehampton. I have always had an urge to move – to feel music beyond just listening to it. Through my neurodiverse life, dance became my way of expressing things that were hard to put into words.
Starting My Journey with Stopgap
I have been working with Stopgap as their Creative Learning Assistant since late September, after seeing an advertisement through Artswork for their Breakthrough scheme. This scheme allows young people aged 18-25 to gain access into the creative industry through internships. I have always wanted to be part of a community that is creative and open to unique individuals. This role has given me the opportunity to work alongside gifted and visionary minds, while exploring what positions may interest me in the future.
Why This Role Spoke to Me
When I saw the advertisement, the job title and role immediately stood out to me. The words “creative” and “learning” appealed to me. I want to work within the creative industry, particularly in a role that allows me to create and collaborate. The idea of “learning” represents growth, discovery, and development. Supporting others in their creative journeys can help unlock their potential and allow them to find their own voice. At the same time, it contributes to building more inclusive communities where everyone has the chance to thrive. I felt this role could inspire different approaches, build new connections, and make learning feel more like an adventure than a task.
A shot from the side of stage at Lift Off Festival. Stopgap's Guildford Dance Company, sit mid-performance lit by a soft golden glow. The group of Disabled and non-disabled dancers wear a mix of grey costumes.
What I’ve Been Doing in the Role
Although the role with Stopgap lasts only six months, it has given me the opportunity to get involved in many different areas. I have assisted managers with admin tasks, carried out research and preparation, and helped collect information for the workshop delivery team. I have participated in and supported youth companies in weekly classes, as well as performances at local dance festivals. I have also supported participants 1-1, as well supported external workshops, joined company classes, and taken part in play days where artists experiment and develop new skills.
Skills and Growth Along the Way
Through engaging with all the opportunities this role has offered, I have developed and gained skills in different areas such as editing, learning the admin side of a company, exploring new things, gaining knowledge of people’s roles and work they do to make up the company. Supporting young adults in dance, building bonds and developing my skills in 1-1 support.
This role has given me the opportunity to become a part of a community, filled with teamwork, trust, and care. I have also had the opportunity to watch individuals come out of their comfort zone and perform proudly and confidently. I feel as though my observation and listening skills have improved further at Stopgap, acknowledging that every person has different needs and learning techniques.
In my internship and working at Stopgap, I am doing something I enjoy and feel motivated and extremely focussed, which has enhanced my time management. Throughout my time here I have been intrigued to learn new skills to gain new knowledge and a better understanding of who I am and what I love.
A pre-performance energy circle. A group of dancers reach their hands into the centre, smiling at each other.
Why Choose a Breakthrough Internship?
Through my journey at Breakthrough, I have felt supported 100% and comfortable to be myself.
I believe that if you are interested in the creative arts and you feel that this industry is where you want to be, then I encourage you to apply to be a part of Breakthrough.
To finish, I will share some highlights of my experience
Highlights of my Experience
- Building meaningful connections with individuals and supporting their growth
- Experiencing a variety of roles, including both remote and in-person work
- Dancing and collaborating with others
- Watching people step out of their comfort zones and succeed
- Experiencing Stopgap’s productions, stage shows, and films
- Supporting the creation of workshop resources for Artificial Things
Looking Ahead: My Future in the Arts
- To secure a role within the creative arts industry
- To work as a dancer, potentially alongside other roles
- To share and promote opportunities, raising awareness within the arts
- To help raise funding and support for creative organisations
- To collaborate with other creatives – sharing ideas and creating choreography, performances, productions, and films