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Careers

This part of our website is dedicated to helping you - the young filmmakers of tomorrow - get into the industry you want to.
Firstly, here's the facts: currently there are around 45,000 people studying media-related courses across the UK. On top of that, it's thought that there may be up to 400,000 people working within the UK industry.
However, don't let the daunting figures dishearten you. At least you know what you're up against!

Choosing a Course

If you are thinking of taking the education route, thoroughly consider what course is going to get you what you need. If you want to work in film production, for example, a media-studies course may not necessarily be the best choice. Almost every college or further education facility across the country is now offering some form of media-training as filmmaking continues to gain recognition as not only a worthy career but an extremely beneficial educational tool.

It is worth noting that over half the media industry works in London, with London and the South East combined accounting for around two thirds of industry staff. The following two links are recognised as significant London-based training providers:

Metropolitan Film School

London Academy

There are also, however, many organisations and institutes throughout the UK dedicated to the nurturing and development of filmmaking in other regions. Your Regional Screen Agency will be able to help you locate some local organisations.
Choosing a Job: Contracted Work

For those of you that have perhaps studied and are now looking for that first job in film, remember that regardless of qualifications, it is extremely common to start at the bottom. Making the tea may be a dull job, but it will give you the chance to meet a lot of important contacts that may come in handy further down the line.

Another important issue to raise is for you to do your research. There's nothing quite as unimpressive as if you have no knowledge of the company you are contacting. Before you send your CV to an organisation, investigate them. If they are a film production organisation, what films have they produced? Do they have a big or small staff team? What kind of market do they produce for, ie. Corporate Film / Advertising or Creative Fiction? What kind of employment could they offer you?
Freelance

Freelance work within the industry is common-place. It is estimated that around half the UK's media-based staff are freelancers. To assist in generating fresh talent for the freelance markets, Skillset, amongst other national establishments, has launched New Entrant Schemes. These are designed to offer practical training, giving you some real hands-on experience.
Useful Career Links
Skillset
Shooting People
Talent Circle
Ideas Factory
Work Experience

As with any competitive industry, work experience is a great way to get your foot in the door. It's a valuable opportunity to learn new skills and to make contacts. As one of the leading media institutions, the BBC offers some fantastic work experience and advice. Click here for more information.

Also, why not check out some other film roles.
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