Prime Video is to spend £10m over the next 3 years to support the UK television and film industry.
The Prime Video Pathway will include apprenticeships and schemes built into all of its Amazon UK Original productions.
It comes through a partnership with the National Film & Television School (NFTS), which will be setting up a new programme with up to 75 places every year. This will offer roles across production, art department, locations, camera, sound and accountant.
“Integral” to the move is a commitment to source at least 50% of participants from outside of London.
“The UK is home to an extraordinary wealth of creative talent, and as our home-grown productions grow, we need to support a sustainable and diverse talent pool with world-class training, and a new creative generation for the industry,” said Dan Grabiner, Head of UK Originals, Amazon Studios.
“We are delighted to be committing £10 million towards that goal today, and thank the NFTS and colleagues across the TV and film industry for their support in helping us fulfil our ambitious goals. To those considering a career in the creative industries: we want to hear from you!”
Prime Video will also be supporting a 12 month Directors Workshop, delivered by the NFTS.
“The NFTS is synonymous with developing the world’s best creative talent through our world class training. We are thrilled to work with Prime Video on this landmark collaboration, which will increase representation behind the camera and scale up the skills required by the many original productions coming down the track,” added Jon Wardle, director of the National Film and Television School.
“A new generation will be offered life-changing opportunities to join the UK’s production juggernaut and we look forward to a raft of new trainees and students from across the country joining us for the exciting ride ahead!”
The £10m also includes a “stepping-up” scheme for its UK productions and the growth of its apprenticeship programme.
