Opportunities in the Welsh film and TV industry

The screen industry in Wales is booming. Over the last few years, we’ve seen an increasing number of big budget productions take to the streets, mountains and studios of Wales to film. Think: His Dark Materials, Willow, The Almond and the Sea Horse, Y Golau and Havoc. Now, more than ever, it’s an exciting time to be part of the industry in Wales.

Whether you want to break into film and TV or you’re looking to up-skill your workforce, these screen sector opportunities are worth exploring. Kickstart – or boost – your career with our round-up of initiatives from three partners we support in the Welsh film and TV industry. 

Culture Connect Wales is a programme run by and for the community. It aims to create a space for diverse talent in the Welsh screen sector. They’re committed to creating and increasing opportunities for Wales’ diverse communities. To do this, they promote jobs and opportunities and offer young people advice and support on how to get into the sector. They’re also keen to help those already in the industry find their next role.

This exciting project is run by Watch Africa Cymru and is supported by us, Creative Wales. Partners involved include BBC Cymru Wales, ITV Cymru Wales, S4C and Channel 4. If you're interested in Culture Connect Wales then explore their site to find the right project for you – they offer a wide range of opportunities, from courses to jobs.

Discover more: Culture Connect Wales

If it’s an apprenticeship or course you’re looking for, then Sgil Cymru is a great place to start. Over the years Sgil – based in Great Point Seren Stiwdios in Cardiff – have trained over 100 apprentices. They currently offer three different types of apprenticeships – depending on what you’re looking for – including, a level three in creative and digital media; a higher level four in creative and digital media (interactive media); and a higher level four in advertising and marketing communication.

One of the schemes on offer is the CRIW production scheme, which awards a level three qualification in creative and digital media. Supported by us, this 12-month scheme is a new shared apprenticeship model providing paid work on a variety of different productions. Previous apprentices have worked on the likes of Casualty, Y Golau / The Light, War of the Worlds 3, Craith/Hidden and Havoc.

They also offer bespoke courses for those already in the industry who want to up-skill or move into a new role. Their Stepping Up training initiative – which we jointly fund with ScreenSkills – helps professionals already working in the industry to progress or change direction in their career. They do this by offering up-skilling opportunities to help you fill any skills gaps. The overarching goal? To support individuals who want a career in film and TV in Wales.

Discover more: Sgil Cymru 

The National Film and Television School (NFTS) is one of the world's leading film schools. With our support and funding, NFTS was able to launch a hub in Wales – NFTS Cymru Wales. Based within the BBC Wales building in Cardiff, NFTS Cymru Wales offers accredited short courses, part-time courses and continuing professional development (CPD) courses. Whether you’re looking to climb the career ladder or take your first step, there are opportunities available for all those interested in the Welsh film and TV industry.

To make sure these opportunities are open to all, the scheme also offers Welsh Government funded bursaries via Creative Wales for all courses.

Courses run throughout the year, so don’t worry if you’re unable to start one now. You can always come back and see what’s available in a few months’ time.

Discover more: NFTS courses