Last week we welcomed 30 locals hoping to kickstart their careers in scripted Film/TV to the studios for an Industry Induction Day, marking the beginning of Round 2 of our flagship training programme.
Backed by West of England Combined Authority investment, the industry-led Workforce Development Programme is delivered by the Studios in partnership with Bristol UNESCO City of Film and Bristol Film Office.
The Programme offers tailored training to demystify the world of scripted production and prepare trainees for entry level positions in the industry, with the aim of strengthening the pipeline of diverse local crew talent.
Each round of the programme begins with an Induction Day that introduces participants to the Bottle Yard Studios’ work and operations, filming in the region as well as giving them more info about the Workforce Development Programme itself.
One participant described the day as “the perfect introduction to Film/TV in the West of England.”
A group of 15 will then be selected to continue onto a bespoke 5-week training scheme delivered by local training providers, Stepping Up.
The programme proudly supports people from backgrounds currently underrepresented in the industry. Underrepresented groups include: young people aged 17-25, those not in education, employment or training, under-employed people and those on zero-hour contracts, women, people from the global majority, disabled people, people living with mental health issues, carers and care leavers. An Access Fund is provided to support any participants who face a financial barrier to taking part.
Round One of the Programme launched in January 2024. 14 trainees have since undergone bespoke training which included special industry facing guest sessions with Bristol Crew, Visual Impact Camera and Lighting Rental and a major production currently in pre-production at The Bottle Yard.
For more information and how to apply for round 3, click here.