Free TV training for underrepresented groups

A film and TV studio where shows such as The Outlaws and Boarders were filmed is offering free training to minority groups hoping to have careers behind the camera.

All Set West, based at The Bottle Yard Studios in Bristol, said it will help people from the West learn the skills needed for an on-set career.

It said the course is open to anyone who is underrepresented in the industry, including women, minorities, LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay bisexual, transgender) people and those with disabilities.

Jane Coulter, from All Set West, said: "Our training is all about preparing people for the reality of working as a freelancer in different departments, so they can step onto set with their eyes wide open."

Bottle Yard Studios, owned by Bristol City Council, is the largest film and TV facility in the West of England.

Ms Coulter said filming in Bristol and at the studios generated more than £46m for the local economy in 2024-25 which was the highest figure it has ever recorded.

She said the region "continues to be a filming destination of choice" for UK producers.

The five-week training programme, funded by the British Film Institute National Lottery Places Fund, focuses on confidence-building, set etiquette and work-readiness, and how to find work as a freelancer, among other things.

Ellie Luxton, 33, from South Gloucestershire, said without the course she would not have had the opportunity to land a locations assistant role on new BBC comedy 'Can You Keep a Secret?' starring Dawn French.

"It has completely changed my life," she said.

Daniel Markey, 20, from South Gloucestershire, managed to secure work experience on Apple TV+ thriller Down Cemetery Road and BBC comedy Boarders following his course.

"What stood out for me about the training was the willingness of the team to help me understand what I needed to do to get on set," he said.

While Jay Adlam, 24, from Bristol, said the training was not only "fantastic" but "opened real doors" for them - giving them "confidence and skills to step into the industry".

"Being immersed in a studio environment and having the opportunity to visit a set gave me invaluable hands-on experience," they said.

The training is open to anyone over the age of 18, based in Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire or North Somerset.

Applicants have until 23:59 GMT on Sunday to apply for the course, which is due to take place in February and March.

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