North East Screen has partnered with the BBC on an award-winning industry skills training program on the set of CBBC’s The Dumping Ground in Hexham, Northumberland. This program gives new entrants hands-on experience and upskills existing crew, advancing their careers in TV and film.
This year, 40 members of the North East Screen Crew Academy attended an Open Day and then applied to shadow a department of their choice during production. Of these, eight trainees were selected for a paid, five-day placement on set, offering valuable practical experience.
Last year, 50% of final-stage trainees secured paid, full-time roles on The Dumping Ground and continue to work with the BBC on series 13, currently in production.
Kristina Hopkin from Stockon-on-Tees was able to secure her first professional credit after taking part in the skills initiative. She said: “I had the best time during my weeks paid placement on The Dumping Ground, shadowing the Art Department and am now working there as a Art Department Trainee. Without North East Screen, none of this would have been possible.”
Glenn Ellis from Newcastle said, “The week I spent with the Grip team as a Grip Trainee was invaluable to me. Both the training I received and the contacts I made have enabled me to secure work on productions like Outlander, Vera, and a major feature film.”
Lisa Davidson, Skills Manager at North East Screen, said: “It’s a crucial opportunity for trainees to bridge the gap between education and employment by directly engaging with industry professionals. This program allows HODs to meet and interact with potential candidates, ensuring they find the right fit for their teams.”
North East Screen’s skills development program on The Dumping Ground gives existing crew the opportunity to progress their careers. There are nine crew members stepping up in to new roles currently working on the show. The roles include DOP, Edit Assistant, Electrician and Production Secretary.
For the first time, a shadowing program has also been put in place for directors to step across and develop their careers in TV. Katja Roberts, one of two directors selected, said: “As a director moving into scripted TV, shadowing on The Dumping Ground is proving to be an incredibly valuable experience for me. I have had a really warm welcome into the Dumping Ground family, and I’d love the chance to return for future series.”
If you are looking to step into or step up your career in the screen industry, head to the North East Screen website to view the support we provide.
