Performing arts

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• college course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role
• a broadcaster training scheme
• specialist courses run by private training providers

University

You could do a degree in film or media production before applying for work with a production company.

You'll find it helpful to take a course that includes practical skills, work placements and the chance to make industry contacts.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

For more information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
• university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/

College

You could start by doing a college course, which may help you to get a job as a production assistant or runner. With experience, you could then move on to become a producer. Courses include:

• Level 3 Diploma in Creative Media Production
• Level 3 Diploma in Film and Television Production
• T Level in Media, Broadcast and Production

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level

For more information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• guide to T Levels|https://www.tlevels.gov.uk/
• funding advice|https://www.gov.uk/further-education-courses/financial-help
• search for courses|/find-a-course

Apprenticeship

You could start by doing a broadcast production assistant advanced apprenticeship and work your way up to a producer role.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

For more information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• guide to apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide

Work

A common way to get into this job is to work your way up from an entry level role such as:

• runner
• programme researcher
• production administrator

Volunteering and work experience

You'll be expected to get practical industry experience through activities like:

• student film and TV
• work experience placements
• hospital or community radio

Search for film and TV companies to approach for experience through media business listing services such as PACT and The Knowledge.

Other routes

Broadcasters like the BBC and Channel 4 offer training schemes. Find out more from:

• BBC trainee schemes
• Channel 4 training scheme
• ITV Careers
• BFI

Some private training providers, film schools and agencies run short courses in production skills.

More information

Career tips

You'll need a lot of experience in both the creative and business sides of film or programme making. You'll also need an in-depth understanding of the production process, and a good network of contacts in the industry.

Professional and industry bodies

You can join The Production Guild, for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.

Further information

Find out more about working in TV or film from:ScreenSkills; Discover Creative Careers; Get Into Film

View all vacancies in this region

With experience, you could become an executive producer, or set up your own production company.

You can find out more about becoming a TV or film producer from ScreenSkills and ProductionBase.