Launch Your Career in Film and TV with ScreenSkills Trainee Finder 2027/28

Are you passionate about film and television and looking for a way to break into the industry? ScreenSkills Trainee Finder 2027/28 offers an exciting opportunity for aspiring screen professionals to gain practical experience, develop industry skills and build connections with production teams across the UK.

Delivered by ScreenSkills, the programme supports people at the beginning of their careers by providing industry training and opportunities to apply for paid placements on film, high-end television and children’s TV productions. Previous trainees have worked on productions including House of the Dragon, Rivals, Gangs of London, Hamnet and Blue Peter, demonstrating the range of projects trainees may have the opportunity to join.

What opportunities are available?

The 12-month programme runs from 1 April 2027 to 31 March 2028 and covers 11 departments: accounts, art department, assistant director/floor runner, camera, costume, edit, hair and make-up, locations, production office, sound, and video assist and digital imaging technician (DIT).

Participants benefit from training, professional development and access to opportunities to be considered for paid production placements. The programme also helps trainees build their networks and understand the expectations of working in a professional production environment. Placements are not guaranteed, however, as opportunities depend on production demand and individual productions make their own hiring decisions.

Who can apply?

ScreenSkills welcomes applicants from a wide range of backgrounds, including those with no previous on-set experience. Applicants must be aged 18 or over, live in the UK, have the right to work full-time in the UK for the duration of the programme, and have completed full-time education by 31 March 2027. They must also have less than 12 months of relevant paid production experience in their chosen department and demonstrate a genuine commitment to that career path.

Relevant experience does not have to come directly from film or television. Skills gained through theatre, photography, music, event management, business administration or salon-based hair and make-up work can all help demonstrate suitability. Applications from under-represented groups are particularly encouraged as ScreenSkills works to make the industry more inclusive.

How to apply

Applications are open now, with a deadline of 2pm on Wednesday 28 October 2026. Interested applicants should visit the official ScreenSkills Trainee Finder 2027/28 application page and select the pink Apply now button. A ScreenSkills profile is required to apply.

Before submitting an application, candidates should research their preferred department, review the relevant ScreenSkills job profiles and skills checklists, and prepare a clear CV that highlights relevant experience, transferable skills and enthusiasm for the role. Applicants should also consult the programme FAQs and available guidance to understand what is expected.

Applications and CVs will be assessed by at least two industry professionals in the applicant’s chosen department. Successful candidates will be invited to an online interview and must provide a written reference from an employer, colleague, tutor or mentor. Applicants can expect an update by 8 January 2027. Successful trainees must also attend all four mandatory online induction days on 13, 14, 20 and 21 March 2027.

For anyone serious about building a career behind the scenes in film or television, ScreenSkills Trainee Finder is a valuable opportunity to take the next step. With the deadline fast approaching, aspiring applicants should explore the available departments, identify where their skills fit and submit their applications before the closing date.

Apply here