Butlins’ Redcoats will be able to train for a degree, it has emerged.
The holiday camp has teamed up with the University of Chichester to offer a two-year foundation degree in musical theatre to aspiring entertainment staff, so-called ‘Redcoats’ because of their red blazers, in the coastal resort of Bognor in Sussex.
Successful students will be able to follow the course with a third-year programme to gain a BA (Hons) in music.
The training scheme follows several other foundation degrees launched by employers earlier this year, including supermarket giant Tesco and beds’ retailer Dreams.
A Butlins spokeswoman told the BBC: “If we can develop some stars for the future through this programme then that can only be a good thing. Redcoats are renowned for going through tough training and by joining forces with the university we are showing our commitment to providing top quality entertainment.”
University officials said the course would help to raise skill levels, linking the entertainment business with educational enterprise.
Famous former Redcoats include former TV presenter Michael Barrymore, former Steps singer Ian “H” Watkins, and former Countdown presenter Des O’Connor.
