Channel 4 has announced it is launching 4Schools, a new initiative aimed at encouraging young people from all backgrounds to pursue a career in the creative industry.
4Schools will reach out directly to schools, initially focusing on schools in the West Midlands, West Yorkshire and the North East with an ambition to roll out the initiative more widely.
It will aim to inspire students into the creative industry by showcasing the broad range of roles in the broadcast, film and digital sectors.
The initiative, which will focus on those from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds aged 11-14, will offer young people practical guidance on career options through workshops, quizzes and sessions from those already working in the industry.
4Schools will include materials to support schools with their own careers activities as well as providing opportunities for speakers from Channel 4 and independent companies to visit schools and discuss creative careers with pupils.
To support and deliver the 4Schools iniative, Channel 4 has partnered with social enterprise TheTalentPeople which also operates GetMyFirstJob.co.uk, a job site for young people.
TheTalentPeople have experience in boosting inclusion in early talent recruitment, and works with schools, colleges, training providers and a host of major employers nationwide.
Channel 4’s Managing Director, Nations and Regions, Sinead Rocks said: “We believe that for many young people, if you can’t see it – you can’t be it. That’s why we think there is real value in providing an accessible insight into the creative industries alongside practical advice as to how to get your foot in the door.
“The UK is a world leader in television and film production and it’s incumbent upon us [to] reach out to people from different backgrounds, help young people realise their aspirations and bring through the next generation of talent into our industry, regardless of where they live.”
Matt Burton, a headteacher who appeared on Channel 4’s series Educating Yorkshire, added: “The next generation of professionals are in our primary and secondary schools right now, and it’s incredibly important that every child is given the opportunity to find out about a breadth of careers – including those in the creative sector.”
“Understanding and interacting with people working in exciting and diverse careers can have a life-shaping effect, and complements the brilliant careers guidance that already goes on in schools across the country.”
4Schools will be a new initiative within 4Skills, Channel 4’s nationwide training and development strategy.
