Our Film and High-End TV (HETV) Workforce Development Programme recently finished it’s highly anticipated second round, providing more opportunities for behind-the-camera local talent to break into the industry.
The Programme supports underrepresented talent from across the West of England region, giving them a front-row seat to the action with a 5-week training scheme equipping them with knowledge and skills to become set-ready for their first jobs in the industry.
The Programme Unveiled
Over the course of 5 weeks, our 15 trainees had the chance to learn from established production professionals, who shared invaluable and honest insights into the industry. Our trainees received advice ranging from how to operate as a freelancer, to how to help the industry become more sustainable, to tips on how to communicate and network confidently.
They also undertook a practical camera workshop with a local production company, attended a Summer networking event at the Studios and enjoyed an on-location set visit to a major production currently filming in the region.
Success Stories in the Making
The first round of the Programme, which ran in the Spring, was nothing short of a smash hit, with participants going on to land roles on major productions filming at The Bottle Yard and making their first moves in industry careers.
The wraparound support offered to participants, which includes an Access Fund available to those facing financial barriers, means our trainees are well supported throughout the Programme and beyond.
One of our debut cohort told us: “Working in film and TV felt unattainable to me before the course and there were so many barriers stopping me from being able to work in the industry, not even knowing where to start for one. The Access Fund meant I could afford to do the course and also helped provide what I needed to be able to take on the role fully when I was offered the job.”
We are expanding on this success with our second cohort, some of whom had already secured on-set work experience before the Programme wrapped!
Workshop with Latent Pictures
Action and Impact
It’s not just the participants who benefit from this Programme; the region’s entire film scene is getting a boost. With more trained professionals ready to work behind the camera and getting snapped up by productions, the film industry in Bristol and the West is set to attract even bigger and more exciting projects.
Get Involved
Applications for round three of our Workforce Development Programme will open in October. If you’ve ever dreamt of being part of the film and TV industry but don’t know how to approach it or felt like it isn’t for you, this is your chance to step into the spotlight – or at least, to help create it.
For full information about the Programme please visit: Film/HETV Workforce Development Programme
The West of England Film & HETV Workforce Development Programme is delivered by The Bottle Yard Studios, Bristol Film Office and Bristol UNESCO City of Film. It is funded by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority’s Mayoral Priority Skills Fund and part-funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.