Tips to launch your career in the screen sector

Starting your career in the film and TV industry can be daunting, especially if you have limited experience. For those looking to break into the screen sector in Wales, Sgil Cymru’s apprenticeships offer an exciting and accessible opportunity – whether you’re fresh out of school or college or considering a career change.

At Creative Wales, we’re committed to supporting emerging talent in the creative industries. That’s why any production receiving our funding must provide a number of paid trainee placements. To boost apprenticeship opportunities, at least one of these placements must be offered to an individual from a recognised apprenticeship scheme, like those from Sgil Cymru.

Their year-long programme develops practical skills across key areas, including production, costumes, makeup, camera and post-production, with placements across North and South Wales.

By the end, participants earn a Level 3 diploma in Media Creation, Production and Craft Support – giving them a recognised qualification to launch their career without needing to go to college.

Sgil Cymru’s apprenticeship programme is designed to give apprentices comprehensive experience in the film and TV industry. The journey begins with an intensive two-week learning block, where participants gain essential knowledge about the industry.

During this time, they will be introduced to topics such as set preparation, call sheets, production jargon and health and safety protocols.

After completing their initial training, apprentices are placed on productions to get hands-on experience. These placements vary in duration, ranging from two weeks to six months, depending on the production. Sgil Cymru makes sure that placements align with apprentices’ interests and career goals. Last year apprentices were placed on productions including, Madfabulous, Mr Burton, Dal y Mellt 2, Out There, Young Sherlock, House of the Dragon II and Pictionary.

Throughout the apprenticeship, participants receive continuous support from the Sgil Cymru team, who provide guidance while apprentices are on set. Apprentices also work towards earning their Level 3 Diploma, which is completed during breaks between productions.

1. Do your research

Before applying, make sure you have a solid understanding of the film and TV industry in Wales. Familiarise yourself with the various roles available using websites like Screen Skills. While you don’t need to have an exact idea of which role you want to work in, understanding the responsibilities of different departments is vital.

Lowri says, ‘A lot of applications say, ‘I love watching TV, so therefore I want to work in television or film,’ but that’s not enough. You need to prove you're serious about entering the industry.’

2. Demonstrate passion

Passion is a key factor in the application process, especially if you don’t have a lot of industry experience. Sgil Cymru values applications that are genuinely interested in working behind the scenes in the film and TV industry. Whether it’s through personal projects, volunteering or other related experiences, demonstrating your enthusiasm will set you apart.

Lowri says, ‘If you make any films or videos for social media or just for yourself, attach those so that we can have a look. If you do any volunteering work with companies or have interesting hobbies, pop those down as well.’

3. Pay attention to details

Attention to detail is crucial in the film and TV industry, where small mistakes have a big impact. So, make sure your application is fully completed, well-organised and free of errors – this will help demonstrate your commitment and professionalism.

Lowri says, ‘Double-check everything on your form before you send it in. If you can't fill it in properly, ask someone to help you.’

4. Highlight transferable skills

Even without direct experience in film or TV, you’ll likely have transferable skills that can help make you a strong candidate. Skills like communication, problem-solving, teamwork and time management are all highly valued on set. Make sure you highlight these in your application.

Lowri says, ‘If you’ve worked in retail, for example, you’ve usually got a little bit of life experience of dealing with lots of different people. In the TV industry, you’ll mix and deal with hundreds of people, so being able to talk to people is good.’

Need help? Sgil Cymru offers guidance on CV writing, portfolio development, and interview prep. If you have any questions, get in touch with the team at help@sgilcymru.com  

For more information on Sgil Cymru’s apprenticeships, head to their website. Or to read about apprenticeship experiences first-hand, read our interview.