Standards will support box office training

A clearly defined set of Occupational Standards is being compiled in preparation for a new suite of qualifications and training for those working in ticketing.  The Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers (STAR) and Creative & Cultural Skills are working with industry partners, including the Society of London Theatre and Wales Millennium Centre, to develop the standards. These will stipulate the competencies required to work in ticketing – whether in a box office, ticketing admissions or contact centre environment – and will include customer service skills as well as the more technical aspects of the role. A series of consultations is running across the country to inform the process. Chairman of STAR, Tom Wright, commented that despite the fact ticketing is a growing sector, no qualifications are currently available: “The establishment of these Occupational Standards is the first step in moving towards specific training being available for young people seeking a career in ticketing.”