The Association of Worship & Venue Technicians (AWVT)

Training Standards & Curriculum Framework

The AWVT have reviewed the technology scope that is currently used within Houses of Worship and amateur-led Arts Venues of various kinds and determined that the knowledge and skills required to build and operate these systems can be described under the following headings:

Stage Systems

These are all electronic devices, cables and supports/rigging used both on and off the stage, without which the following functions will not work effectively.

It involves load-in (for temporary venue), set-up, connection, end-to-end line and device testing, debugging/fault-finding, repair/replace if something is not functioning correctly, set-down and load-out. It also involves assistance on stage to participants (musicians, speakers, actors, etc.) with their own equipment to aid connection to/disconnection from the Stage Systems.

Audio

This is the control and operation of any audio signal within the venue Stage Systems from it source (human or device) to any desired output device from which it is to be heard.

It involves the adjustment of timbre, tone, volume and other parameters of each sound source, balancing of multiple inputs to multiple outputs in order for the output sound to be clearly heard and enjoyed.

Projection

The collection of material to be visually seen by audience, congregation within the venue, such as words, visual images, video.

It includes the collection and collation of material for such presentation as well as the management of the Stage Systems necessary to present those impacts (projectors, large format screens, etc.)

Lighting

The installation, placement, focus, planning, sequencing, control and operation of light sources and their specific areas of illumination for the activities being undertaken within the venue.

This may include operation of automated systems to control light levels of individual luminaires to match the activities undertaken both on and off the stage as required.

Video

The operation camera equipment for the purpose of capturing and transmitting video images of activities on and off the stage as required.

The selection and mixing of video from multiple sources for presentation to both internal (Projection) and external (Broadcast) systems.

Broadcast

The operation of systems to convert multiple input sources, combining audio, projection and video, for broadcast outside of the venue via appropriate technologies.

This would include internet streaming, but could also include other broadcasting technologies in order for the activities taking place within the venue to be watched/heard by people outside the venue.

ICT

The support, maintenance and security of Information and Communication Technologies used to support the above activities as needed to ensure consistent capability that is fit for purpose in a manner that cannot be undermined by disruptive actions of 3rd parties who may have a different agenda to those responsible for the activities taking place within the venue.

Technical Team Management

The co-ordination of multiple technology systems, along with the various operational technicians, to facilitate the smooth function of the activities taking place within the venue as and when required, including the welfare and ongoing training of team members.

Grading & Qualifications

The AWVT has identified the need for up to 8 grades of qualification in each of these topical subject areas, ranging from education Entry Level to Level 3. This will require the definition of multiple standards to detail the appropriate curriculum to be covered for each grade in terms of Knowledge, Skills & Behaviours. Such definitions shall be detailed enough to enable an appropriately qualified tutor to teach/train volunteer technicians to be able to achieve the required standard. The definitions shall also define the end-point assessment criteria by which an independent assessor can measure the capability of a volunteer technician and determine if they have met the required standard and a what level.

Volunteer technicians who achieve the required standards for a particular subject and grade will be awarded certificates accordingly in recognition of their achievement.

Get Involved

 

Are you interested in supporting AWVT’s mission?

We need:

  • Web & database developers (linux/PHP)
  • Photographers & Videographers
  • Teachers/trainers/assessors
  • Subject matter expert contributors (Stage hands, Audio, Projection,
  • Lighting, Video, Broadcasting, ICT, etc.)
  • Volunteer technicians
  • House of Worship & Arts Venue/Troupe/Band leaders
  • Administrators
  • Regional co-ordinators
  • Social Media marketeers

So, if you believe you are able to make a difference, get in touch!