British film industry readies for demand with new training Academy
Ground-breaking, strategic alliance announced between the film industry and education to develop future talent.
- (1888PressRelease) March 18, 2011 - The British Film industry is to get a major boost with the launch of a new training academy that will provide apprenticeships and qualifications for people working behind the scenes in film.
The new Skillset Craft and Technical Skills Academy is the first of its kind and is a collaboration between Skillset - the Sector Skills Council for the Creative Media - and Ealing, Hammersmith &West London College. Working closely with studios and other film-based companies, the Academy will become a centre of excellence in film, providing apprenticeships and qualifications for people working trades such as camera, grips, set design within the UK film industry.
The Skillset Craft and Technical Skills Academy will provide qualifications for both industry professionals and new entrants to provide them with an advantage when competing for film work.
The UK film industry has some of the most exceptional craft and technical expertise in the world. However, Britain is now competing globally to attract production companies to the UK and investment in UK films. The skills and experience of UK craft and technical crews, along with easy access to 'set-ready' freelancers and apprentices, help to attract an influx of foreign productions choosing to shoot in the UK.
Research across the industry conducted by Skillset has highlighted a short-fall of qualified talent has been highlighted in seven craft and technical disciplines and these will make up the first training courses offered by the Academy. These disciplines are Camera, Lighting, Hair & Make Up, Editing, Animation, Runners, Grips and Wardrobe.
Qualifications can be taken by experienced industry professionals through workplace assessment (studio or location). Training courses for new entrants vary in length, on average between 12 and 24 months, and involve on-set training, structured practical experience and assessment.
The training initiative is made possible through funding received from industry contributions to the Skills Investment Fund (SIF), the voluntary levy on productions filmed in the UK, and is part of Skillset's 'A Bigger Future 2' initiative.
Producer Iain Smith (Wanted, Children of Men), chair of Skillset's Film Skills Council, said the Academy was a great example of the film profession and academia working together to solve a genuine industry issue.
"The Academy will change the way the film industry recruits and develops the talent of the future. We're working side-by-side with professional crews and production companies to determine the skills they need and the future issues they might face. The Academy is going to be a lynchpin for the industry with the long-term vision to keep the UK's behind-the-scenes talent second to none."
Principal Paula Whittle of Ealing, Hammersmith & West London College said "The Academy will provide the UK film industry with a strong support system that will help it to flourish. We are proud to be part of a project that focuses exactly on what is needed by employers and that will provide a solid foundation for competition on a global stage."
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