Netflix and Warner Bros have joined a pilot scheme to offer apprenticeships for people aspiring to work in the TV and film industry.
The two industry giants will partner with screen industry body ScreenSkills on the pilot, which will see 20 people trained as broadcast production assistants and as production accountants.
Supported by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, the ScreenSkills Apprenticeship Programme pilot aims to unlock funds created through the apprenticeship levy, paid by all businesses with a payroll of over £3 million.
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Netflix apprenticeships
Apprenticeships funded by the levy require apprentices to be employed by a single employer for a minimum of a year, but because film and television productions can rarely offer continuous 12-month employment, the ScreenSkills pilot scheme aims to find a solution to this challenge.
Recruitment will start shortly, with apprentices commencing their placements with Netflix and WarnerMedia Group, which includes Warner Bros and HBO, in the summer.
The programme pilot was announced today by culture secretary Nicky Morgan, with education secretary Gavin Williamson, on visits to Warner Bros. Baroness Morgan said: "The creative industries are one of the UK's biggest success stories and play a pivotal role in shaping how the rest of the world sees us.”
Mr Williamson said: “It’s absolutely fantastic to see global companies like Netflix and Warner Bros investing in apprenticeships to help young people pursue exciting careers in TV and film. Britain’s creative industries are a huge success at home and abroad. This innovative partnership will provide the opportunity for apprentices to gain the skills they need to get ahead in the industry while working on major productions.
“We recognise that more needs to be done to make sure the TV and film industry is able to take full advantage of the apprenticeship system, including the levy. This scheme will also help test how we can support them to generate the skilled workforce they are crying out for.”
Anne Mensah, vice-president for original series at Netflix, said: “This is an incredibly exciting time for UK film and television and we are proud to partner with DCMS, ScreenSkills and Warner Bros on this important pilot, as we work to unlock and champion opportunities for everyone, across the industry.”
