Screen Yorkshire launches training scheme to boost region’s film skills

Screen Yorkshire has launched a training programme aimed at boosting film industry skills in the region.

The SKILL UP scheme follows news earlier this year that the region is the UK’s fastest growing for film & TV.

Screen Yorkshire says it has designed SKILL UP to support the development of Yorkshire’s existing crew base and demystify the industry for new entrants.

It says there are increasing opportunities for people to enter or progress across a range of roles within the industry, from grips to wigs, graphics or prosthetics.

The programme follows on from the success of its BOOTCAMP training scheme, with the support of Creative Skillset’s Film Skills Fund.

Richard Knight, head of production at Screen Yorkshire says: ‘’I’m delighted to be able to bring further training opportunities to Yorkshire after the significant impact of the previous bootcamp schemes.  With the additional remit to develop existing behind-camera talent in the industry – and with a stellar line-up of speakers being booked, there’ll be a kaleidoscope of training opportunities on offer in the coming months.’’

Since his attendance on Bootcamp 2016, Ben Reid from York now has VFX credits on Star Wars: The Last Jedi , Andy Serkis’ directorial debut Breathe and David Bruckner’s The Ritual.

He said: ‘’Screen Yorkshire’s Bootcamp was a fantastic opportunity to galvanise my career transition into the film business. It was very useful in opening my eyes to all the various jobs that are available, and the skills that you need to be successful in each.

“If you want to get into the business you have work your way in, sometimes from imaginative angles. Screen Yorkshire’s scheme gave me access to people in the industry and an opportunity to grill them about their job.’’

The closing date for applications is October 20.