Broadcast Apprenticeships Target Digital Media

The offical body, Skillset has joined forces with some of the UK's biggest broadcasters to pioneer a new pathway into the industry with the introduction of the advanced Apprenticeship in Creative and Digital Media.

As it is now National Apprenticeship Week (February 7 - 11), Skillset is celebrating the success of this new Apprenticeship, which is an exciting example of how vocational training can provide more open access to the highly competitive Creative Industries. It is also a fantastic way for employers to tap into new creative talent to help their businesses grow, while playing an active role in shaping the workforce of the future.

The new framework provides a 21st-century twist on the old apprenticeship model and will change the way young people find their way into these highly sought-after creative careers.

So far, the BBC, Channel 4, ITV Wales and a number of independent producers including Twofour, Halo Films and Ceidiog Cyf have joined the scheme, taking on apprentices to work in a variety of different areas of their businesses.

Channel 4's Head of Learning and 4Talent, Jo Taylor, said: "Channel 4's Apprenticeship programme enhances our already strong and innovative approach to new talent development. Ensuring that people understand and have opportunities to experience our exciting industry while learning new skills is fundamental to not only C4, but the creative economy as a whole.

"In the current economic environment it is more important than ever to invest in new talent training, which is why I am thrilled to be able to be running this apprenticeship programme in collaboration with Skillset."

Currently, there are more than 60 apprentices doing the Apprenticeship in Creative and Digital Media in England and Wales. This number is set to grow significantly over the coming year, with an increasing number of employers looking to the Apprenticeship as a solution to their training and recruitment needs.

Skillset's Chief Executive Dinah Caine said: "This Apprenticeship is an exciting and innovative way for young people to enter the Creative Media industries.

"Our hope is that this Apprenticeship will make our industries more accessible to young people from a diverse range of backgrounds. Not only will these apprentices be learning the most relevant and up-to-date skills in their chosen roles, they will also be forging valuable networks within their industries, and earning a wage while they do it."

Skillset is still looking for employers and apprentices to join the scheme in London and south west England. Anybody who is interested in finding out more about these apprenticeships, whether as an employer or a potential apprentice, should visit: www.skillset.org/apprenticeships

(KMcA)