Channel 4 has set up a training scheme to offer 19 disabled people the chance to start careers in television production.
The Paralympic Training Scheme will offer 12-month placements at indies across the UK, with some going on to work on the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games.
“This is a wonderful opportunity to work at the heart of some amazing indies, gain a wealth of experience and learn new skills which could potentially take the trainees into a career they had never envisaged,” said Sinead Rocks, Channel 4’s MD, Nations and Regions.
“Identifying and nurturing new talent is one of the most important roles of 4Skills and I’m thrilled so many indies across the UK have teamed up with us to offer these year-long opportunities.”
The programme is running nationwide, with independent production companies in Belfast, Birmingham, Bristol, Chepstow, Glasgow, Leeds, London and Manchester.
It’s being funded and led by Leeds-based 4Skills, with training and support provided by thinkBIGGER!
“Sports production is one area where we really need to increase the numbers of disabled people playing key roles behind the camera. This scheme will help to give a much-needed career boost to talented people from all over the UK,” added Channel 4’s Head of Sport, Pete Andrews.
Indies signed up to support the training include Buzz 16, Gravity, IMG, Sunset & Vine, Whisper, Brown Bob Productions, Firecrest Films, Mighty Productions, North One, Open Mike, Outline, Raise the Roof Productions, Red Sauce, True North, Waddell Media, Warner Bros., Worker Bee and 4Creative.
Successful applicants will attend a week-long TV Boot Camp where they will hear from graduates of previous schemes as well as Commissioning Editors who will give the lowdown on what it takes to succeed.
The closing date is 28th May.
