A Bigger Future report - BFI - British Film Institute

• Developing fast-track initiatives and conversion courses that nurture
key talent, creativity and entrepreneurialism;
• Delivering management, leadership and company development skills
which are effectively incorporated into training initiatives;
• Setting industry targets to increase the number of people from
under-represented or disadvantaged groups who have access to skills
development opportunities;
• Providing training content on-line or in formats which fit in with all working
patterns and hours of the industry.
Training providers also need to be encouraged to make links with and adapt
models of good practice from the European and US film industries. Stronger
relationships with equipment companies and manufacturers are also essential to
meet individual and company development needs, in particular with new
technologies or software.
THE SOLUTION
The Approach
Providers or companies applying for support for skills training must be
encouraged to develop innovative approaches.
The professional guilds and associations representing specialised grades and
fields in the industry must further increase active guidance and support for new
entrants’ initiatives and for professional and company development activity.
Structured new entrants training has the potential to contribute significantly to
the overall diversity of the film industry’s workforce, particularly in providing
much needed contact and exposure for individuals with no prior connection to
the industry. These guilds and associations must also take increased
responsibility for ensuring access to opportunities for all individuals with ability
regardless of their backgrounds or circumstances.
Flexible funding will be allocated to help address the full range of priorities
identified by the industry. The strategy will focus on three areas. Support for
new entrants, support for the existing workforce and support for companies. In
practice this will mean:
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– subsidising skills and talent development for the existing workforce,
(freelance, contract or permanent), either through training providers
or by funding company-led initiatives;