GETTING STARTED AS A STUDIO TEACHER IN CALIFORNIA

Teaching On Set
Written By

If you’re a teacher in California looking for a change, a career as a studio teacher is an interesting and worthwhile option to consider. Studio teachers serve minors in the entertainment industry who are unable to attend "regular" school because of their often irregular work schedules.

Educators turn to careers as studio teachers for many reasons. Some crave the challenges of the entertainment industry, while others seek an opportunity to break free of the day-to-day repetition in traditional schools. Whatever your reason, you can be sure that life as a studio teacher is never dull! Let’s take a look at what’s required to embark on this exciting career path.

First, studio teacher applicants must hold both a single-subject and a multiple-subject California teaching credential, as outlined in the California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Chapter 6, Subchapter 2, Article 1, Section 11755. After meeting these requirements, prospective studio teachers must pass a written exam administered by the Labor Commission to become certified (or renew their certifications). The purpose of this exam is to ensure that teachers have a thorough knowledge of California’s labor laws that protect young performers in the entertainment industry. Finally, each studio teacher applicant must attend a two-day, 12-hour studio teacher course that is offered once per year by the CA Division of Labor Standards Enforcement. 

Besides providing education, California studio teachers are charged with an additional task: looking after the “health, safety, and morals” of kids under the age of 16. This includes ensuring safe working conditions and looking after the mental and physical well-being of the young performer. Being a child actor’s on-set advocate is an important responsibility and one that is not to be taken lightly.

The job of a studio teacher is like no other job in education, so you need to be sure you’re up to the task. A passion for teaching is an obvious must, but flexibility is the next most important consideration. Rehearsal and performance schedules can be hectic, requiring studio teachers to be at their creative best when managing time, for both their students and themselves.

In addition to facilitating a young person's education and ensuring his or her well-being, a studio teacher also gets to experience set life and be a part of the fascinating world of movies, television, theatre, and/or music.

Does this sound like a career that suits your teaching ability and spirit of adventure? If you’re ready to look into this unique opportunity further, please visit our Teacher Information page.

For complete details on becoming a studio teacher in California, visit http://www.dir.ca.gov/dlse/Studio_teachers.htm.

TWITTER

Previous

QUIET ON THE SET CAN WAIT; SAFETY FIRST!
Next

Educational Requirements for Young Actors in New York