BAFTA, Skillset and Creative England unveil BAFTA Crew

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The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA), Skillset Craft and Technical Skills Academy and Creative England have announced the launch of BAFTA Crew, a major new skills development and networking programme for experienced craft and technical crew working in film and television in England.

BAFTA Crew is designed to develop the film production skills and contacts of crew across England with the ultimate aim of supporting the production infrastructure and developing ‘below the line’ talent outside of the capital. The initiative includes live and online masterclasses delivered by film industry professionals, drawn from BAFTA’s highly successful pool of winners, nominees and members. The programme will cover creative, technical and operational topics across departments. BAFTA Crew members will also be part of a network of professional peers and have closer access to Creative England’s Production & Location Services team who help crew national drama and feature film productions.

Kaye Elliott, Creative England’s Head of Production Services and Locations, added: “The outside London production industry is growing all the time and it’s our job to ensure the regional offer is understood and freelancers based outside London can make the most of every opportunity.  Part of our remit is to look at any potential skills gaps in the regions and it’s clear from talking to people at our crew nights that there’s a huge demand for the opportunity to learn new skills and make contacts. This partnership with BAFTA and Creative Skillset gives us the chance to meet that need by sharing the experiences of some of the most respected names in the industry, and we’re delighted to be involved.”

Sarah Trigg, Skillset Craft and Technical Skills Academy, said: “For many professionals working in film, the most useful and inspiring lessons to be learned come from the experiences of those leading the way in their profession. BAFTA Crew offers an excellent opportunity to bring these experiences and stories to the regions and thus contribute to the professional development of crews.”

BAFTA Crew is open for applications and the deadline is Monday 18 February 2013. It is open to applicants with two or more TV broadcast or feature film credits who live outside the M25, and the final group will be selected by a panel of established professional peers at the end of February. 300 ‘below the line’ professionals from Sound, Art, Post-production, Camera, Costume and Production Management will be invited to join the group.

For further details on how to apply, click here