Performing arts

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role
• volunteering
• applying directly
• training with a professional body

University

You could do a degree course although it's not essential. Relevant subjects include:

• creative media production
• film and television production
• film and TV studies
• performing arts

You might find it helpful to choose 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 take a college course, which may help you to get into the industry. Courses include:

• Level 3 Certificate in Media Techniques
• Level 3 Diploma in Creative Media Production
• Level 3 Diploma in Performing Arts
• Level 3 Diploma in Business

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

For more information

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

Apprenticeship

You may be able to do an apprenticeship as a broadcast production assistant.

The BBC, ITV and Channel 4 also offer apprenticeship opportunities.

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
• BBC apprenticeships|https://www.bbc.co.uk/careers/trainee-schemes-and-apprenticeships
• ITV apprenticeships|https://careers.itv.com/teams/early-careers/apprenticeships
• Channel 4 apprenticeships|https://careers.channel4.com/4talent/apprenticeships
• guide to apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide

Work

You could start by working for a sound or camera equipment hire company to get some experience.

Volunteering and work experience

Get as much practical work experience as you can. This will show employers that you're committed to learning more about the industry. You can build useful experience through activities like:

• student film or TV productions
• community or student radio
• work experience placements

You'll also get the opportunity to meet people already working in TV and film. Building a network of contacts could help you when you start looking for work.

The BBC, ITV and Channel 4 offer work experience placements, and 'insight' and 'talent days'. Competition can be tough, but if you're successful, it will help you get a better understanding of the industry.

You can search for film and TV companies to approach for experience through media business listing services like PACT and The Knowledge.

ScreenSkills also has information on finding work experience.

Direct application

You can apply directly to become a runner. This job is often seen as a first step into the industry and employers could be more interested in your enthusiasm and initiative than your formal qualifications. Any work experience you can get will also help.

Other routes

You could join The Production Guild. It's a membership organisation for professionals working in UK film and television. It offers training including a Runner's Basic Training workshop for people who want to get into the industry.

Requirements and restrictions

You'll need to:

• It can be useful to be able to drive and have use of a car.

More information

Career tips

You should show that you have administrative and organisational skills, so any previous experience in areas like office work, customer service or hospitality would be useful. Having a fast typing speed and shorthand skills may also be helpful.

Further information

You can get more information and advice about careers in film and TV from ScreenSkills and Get Into Film.

You can find out more about entry level opportunities in television from the Royal Television Society.

You can find out more about creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.

View all vacancies in this region

If you already have some industry experience or have completed training, then you may be able to apply for a ScreenSkills Trainee placement.

With experience, you could move into a production assistant, assistant producer (AP) or producer role.