‘Stepping Up’ open for craft, technical and production crew

The second round of the training programme ‘Stepping Up’ is now open for applications from experienced craft, technical, production and post-production crew members to take the next step and move up in their career. The aim of the scheme is to nurture Scotland’s existing creative talent, increase their employability and help them to ‘step-up’ to more senior roles through a combination of paid work placements, bespoke short courses and mentoring. Applications are particularly welcome from people looking to progress to become production managers,  first and second  assistant directors, production co-ordinators, script supervisors or standby art directors. Alasdair Smith, Scotland Director, Creative Skillset, said: “The recent Employment Census  demonstrated growth in the Scottish creative media workforce, which now employs 12,500 people, up from 7,300 in 2009.  To ensure the industry continues to flourish it is vital we support film and TV crew through innovative schemes such as Stepping Up, which is already seeing great results from the first intake of applicants earlier this year. “The need for structured opportunities for employees to make the next step was identified by local employers as a key skills challenge for Scotland. Stepping Up helps to give them a structured way to gain the rounded experience needed.” The current round closes for applications at 9am on Wednesday 28 August. Further information can be found at www.creativeskillset.org/steppingup. The scheme is 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). Financial support has also been received from a number of Scottish-based independent production companies. Creative Skillset works closely with industry to identify and address skills needs and support production in Scotland and across the UK. Events also support the freelance community through free workshops, training and networking opportunities.