The new Creative Skillset Drama Training Programme will create 20 Stepping Up drama placements, building upon a scheme running since 2010 that focused on training producers and script editors. This new programme will further extend the government's work in workforce development.
The aim of the programme is to build the number and quality of film and TV crews in Scotland to support production and address skills gaps. As well as the 20 Stepping Up drama placements, the new funding will create eight Stepping Up factual placements delivered through the BBC and new traineeships for Script Editors and Producers.
Alasdair Smith, Scotland Director, Creative Skillset, said: “It is vital to support the development of producers, executives and executive producers now in order to meet the expected growth in Scottish comedy and drama production. We have already seen major growth in this industry, which has created an urgent need for skilled TV drama production staff. This programme will create an environment where the next generation of Scotland’s creative leaders can flourish, attracting top class production talent and giving them real and valuable on-the-job training to address their skills gaps”.
Funded by a partnership of Creative Skillset, BBC Scotland, Creative Scotland, BECTU, Skills Development Scotland and the European Social Fund, via Scotland’s Trade Union Centre (STUC), the programme offers new training opportunities for freelancers in TV & film in Scotland. Financial support has also been received from a number of Scottish-based independent production companies.