If you would like to work in the screen industry in the North East, our NE Screen Crew Academy can make a career in Film and TV more accessible for you.
The Academy supports new entrants to the industry by running masterclasses, workshops, CV surgeries, on-set open days and shadow placements.
Perhaps most significantly, we also incentivise productions in the region to hire Academy Members by subsidising rates through our Production Fund and Access funding initiatives. Put simply, if you are on our Academy, your cost to a production may be halved. In a competitive field, this gives you a real advantage as productions are for more likely to offer our Crew Academy Members that invaluable first opportunity.
North East Screen is dedicated to encouraging equality, diversity and inclusivity in the screen industries and providing opportunities to support the creation of a workforce that reflects the diversity of the UK.
How do I join the Academy?
If you’re in the first two years of working in the screen industry, the Crew Academy can offer you valuable early career support. To become a Crew Academy member, you must:
– Have a North East post code
– Be over 18
– Have finished full time education
– Be available to work on production
– Be registered on the North East Screen Crew Database
– Have attended a NE Screen Bridge to Industry Careers Workshop
We aim to run Bridge to Industry Workshops every two to three months and they tend to be in high demand. Join our mailing list for the latest news on our upcoming events.
After attending a Workshops, you will receive final instructions and an Academy Application Form.
I have professional credits already. Can I join the academy?
If you are within the first 2 years of working in the industry, then you are still eligible to join the Academy as we recognise you may still benefit from our support.
Depending on the level of your professional experience, you may also be exempt from the requirement to attend a Workshop.
The North East Screen Crew Academy held a Bootcamp for new entrants who want a career in the screen industry. The Bootcamp was held at the Northern Film and TV Studios in Hartlepool and was led by Jude Winstanley and Matt Gallagher. Those who attended learnt more about working in feature film and TV drama production. Sessions included information on what to expect when working in the industry, and how to perfect your CV, as well as insights from experienced crew giving their top tips for getting into and getting on in the industry.
It was great to see how all the departments collaborated in order to make the finished product, ensuring it all runs smoothly, and that the doors aren’t necessarily closed if you want to work in other departments. I’ve learnt that putting yourself out there, networking and getting involved are so valuable. You don’t have to go to uni or work/move down south for opportunities in this field.
– Joseph Crooks on The Dumping Ground open day
Joseph Crooks
It was really interesting to see, meet and hear from everyone about their journeys, their different roles, and what they do. The advice was invaluable.
– Emma Tilney on The Dumping Ground open day
Emma Tilney
I was unsure how today would turn out, but it’s been amazing! All departments were so interesting to listen to and all really knowledgeable and interesting. I’m so glad I came as I enjoyed it thoroughly.
View the jobs below or click here to register on our Crew Database
Gaffer
Role Gaffer
Salary (dependent on experience)
Location North East (interior shoot location)
Reporting to Production Team, Raw Productions
Closing Date Open until filled
Interviews TBD
Background To Post
Raw Productions are producing a feature‑length documentary for a major global streaming service. To support the production, they are seeking an experienced Gaffer for an interior shoot requiring pre‑rig, strike and de‑rig work.
The role covers 8–12 March, including preparation and shoot days. Remote consultation may also be required in the lead-up to filming.
Who Are We Looking For?
The production is looking for an experienced Gaffer who can support:
Interior shoot lighting pre‑rig, strike and de‑rig across the shoot period.
Remote consultation ahead of the shoot (paid time negotiable).
Providing lighting kit if available (costs covered).
This role would suit someone confident working independently and collaboratively with a small documentary crew.
How To Apply
If you are interested and available for the dates stated, please send your CV to filmoffice@northeastscreen.org with “Gaffer” in the subject header, and your details will be forwarded to the production.
Wardrobe / Hair & Make‑up
Role Wardrobe / Hair & Make‑up
Salary dependent on experience
Location North East (interior shoot location)
Reporting to Production Team, Raw Productions
Closing Date Open until filled
Interviews TBD
Background To Post
Raw Productions are producing a feature‑length documentary for a major global streaming platform, based on a story set in the North East. The production team is seeking an experienced Wardrobe / Hair & Make‑up professional to support a short interior shoot.
The role covers a 3‑day shoot from 9–11 March, with interior filming taking place on 10–11 March and an additional prep/familiarisation day on 9 March.
Who Are We Looking For?
We are seeking someone who can confidently manage:
Wardrobe administration, including logging and registering all hired‑in costumes, issuing them to cast, and ensuring items are signed back in.
Coordination of uniform hires, all pre‑sized to cast measurements (no alterations required).
Light hair and make‑up, only minor as cast will be selected based on natural appearance.
Assistance in sourcing police uniforms from 2010.
This role is ideal for someone highly organised, reliable and comfortable working with hired wardrobe inventory.
How To Apply
If you are interested and available for the dates stated, please send your CV to filmoffice@northeastscreen.org with “Wardrobe / Hair & Make‑up” in the subject header, and your details will be forwarded to the production.
North East Screen Industries Partnership (NESIP) investments across the North East is creating opportunities for the resilient world class talent based in the region to innovate and pivot to new ways of working across an ever changing creative industry.
The report highlights a 131% surge in regional production spend, driven by strategic investment, the impactful work of the North East Screen Film Office, and the growth of a vibrant creative ecosystem fostered through collaboration with regional and national partners, including the BBC. With over £65 million in GVA, the North East has firmly established itself as the fastest-growing region in the UK for screen industries.
Other key achievements over the three years include:
The equivalent of 1,046 FTE jobs created across the screen sector, according to the EIA Saffrey report
An impressive £6.70 return on every £1 invested in projects via the North East Production Fund (NEPF)
£2.37 million invested in 10 productions through the NEPF
65% of crew members employed on NEPF productions are from the North East
A 90% increase in filming days with productions staying and filming for longer in the region thanks to alternative studio spaces
6,422 paid training dayson production delivered to support lifelong workforce development
8 regularly commissioned companies – up from just one prior to 2022
50 investments in slate and business development for regional companies and talent
North East Screen Chief Executive, Alison Gwynn said,
“Not only is the North East the fastest growing region in the UK for screen industries, it’s also a region bursting with untapped potential, despite the challenges the global screen industry has faced.
“This report is a testament to the power of our unique public sector and industry collaboration. Everything achieved here is thanks to the incredible talent, crew, businesses and world class stories that are rooted in our region.
“Productions come to the North East for our world class locations, which are vibrant, diverse and really accessible, and stay because they find all they need via our welcoming front door to the industry in the region.
“This is just the beginning. As we enter the next phase of our delivery, we will ensure that our activity reflects the diversity of the region, backs innovation, and has sustainable and inclusive practices embedded across all of it.”
North East Screen is the delivery programme of the North East Screen Industries Partnership (NESIP), driving growth across the screen industries and wider creative industries in the North East and Tees Valley with funding support from the Tees Valley Combined Authority and North East Combined Authority. NESIP is committed to unlocking the full creative potential of the region, with the aim to more than double its share of the UK film and TV production market, generating an economic impact of £88 million over the initial five year period.
In collaboration with the BBC and alongside regional education institutions, NESIP is building a sustainable, inclusive screen ecosystem that nurtures local talent, supports production, and attracts national and international projects.
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said,
“We are a region full of creative talent and that is why we’re investing £6,252,944 to support the groundbreaking work North East Screen is doing to bring major film and TV productions to our region.
“Our iconic landmarks and locations have been beamed across the world and featured in leading film and TV productions, including the Harry Potter films and more recently 28 Years Later.
“Bringing more productions to the region means hundreds of new creative jobs and opportunities, right from starring roles to those supporting behind the scenes.
“We’re setting the stage to become a real powerhouse of UK film and TV production, and as our plans for leading studios right here in our region progress, it’s an incredibly exciting time for the creative industries and talent located here in the Noth East.”
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said,
“It’s outstanding that our region’s vibrant TV and film production industry is going from strength to strength as the fastest-growing in the UK – supporting hugely successful shows such as the powerful Teesside story told in ‘I Fought The Law‘.
“Our support – in collaboration with the work of North East Screen – is helping this area establish itself as creative powerhouse and become a place where local people can build exciting, skilled careers.
“Through the Tees Valley Investment Zone, we’re putting a real focus on supporting our fast-growing creative and digital sectors – driving forward with the £33.5m expansion of The Northern Studios and an exciting new production village in Hartlepool.
“These developments are creating well-paid jobs, attracting investment, and making our region the go-to place for world-class productions. We’re proud to be playing our part in this success story.”
As the region continues to grow, North East Screen remains committed to backing homegrown talent and championing the crews and businesses that bring global content to the region. With the North East, Crown Works Studios and the Tees Valley Investment Zone – focused on growing creative and digital industries – highlighted in the Government’s Modern Industrial Strategy, the region is in a good place to continue its growth, enhancing why the North East is considered one of the best places to live, work and play in the UK.
Over 6,000 people across the North of England have benefitted from Screen Alliance North activity during their second year of funding.
In their latest figures just released, the northern skills cluster, supported by the BFI awarding National Lottery funding, the partnership has continued to make an impact attracting almost 10,000 people to their events throughout the year and have supported trainees from a range of marginalised backgrounds (48% of trainees have a disability, 28% of trainees identify as LGBTQ+ and 24% of trainees are from low socio-economic backgrounds).
Screen Alliance North, a partnership formed by Liverpool Film Office, North East Screen, Screen Manchester and Screen Yorkshire in April 2023, has delivered through each agency nearly 400 activities this year, from bootcamps to bespoke training sessions, shadowing placements to on the job training.
Formed to address the skills gap in the industry and to level out opportunities in the northern region, the partnership is strongly focused on equal access within the industry and increasing accessibility to the industry.
Alison Gwynn, Chief Executive of North East Screen said on behalf of the Executive Team: “We’re committed to ensuring that opportunity is not determined by postcode or class, and that the north is not just a place where productions are made, but where careers are built and sustained. This year we’ve built strong new connections and developed existing relationships, working with stakeholders and collaborating with employers, to create 100’s of meaningful opportunities for people across the North and are proud of what we have achieved.”
Penny Hall, Skills Cluster Lead added: “This review outlines the impact of our second year. We have delivered targeted training in high-demand areas, shaped by direct engagement with productions and crew. We’ve piloted new approaches to inclusive leadership and worked with a range of partners on access, sustainability and good working practice, because we believe real change must start at the top and be embedded into everyday working practices.”
Screen Alliance North are already delivering year three of their planned activity which focuses on five core objectives and are in the planning stages for future funding possibilities. The four northern agencies now work closely together for skills work, industry mapping and data collection, with the film offices closely linked to support major productions.
Alison continued: “As the agencies have worked more strongly together, the cluster has evolved and we feel the strength of our partnership is benefitting productions and crew as well as making the industry more accessible for new entrants from all backgrounds. We know what’s happening in our individual regions so together we have a very strong position and can support each other. We want to make a big difference to the industry and collectively we can achieve that in a sustainable way that grows production in the North.”
The BBC Digital Accelerator, delivered in partnership with North East Screen, is designed to elevate the next wave of world-class digital content creators right here in the North East of England.
Who’s it for?
We’re looking for bold, ambitious production companies ready to develop standout content for online platforms that can generate future revenue. If you’re passionate about reaching audiences with innovative, platform-native video – think vertical formats, livestreams, creator-led collaborations, and social-first storytelling – we want to hear from you.
But it’s not just about companies. We’re also actively seeking digital creators who champion the North East, both on-screen and behind the scenes. If you’re producing content that resonates across TikTok, YouTube, Twitch, or other platforms – or if you’re eager to partner with companies shaping the future of digital storytelling – this is your chance to connect.
Why get involved?
This is more than just an accelerator. It’s an opportunity to:
• Apply as a company and access support to scale your content.
• Connect as a creator and find future collaborators in the region.
• Network with both companies and talent who share your ambition to supercharge the North East’s digital scene.
Let’s talk
Whether you’re a company hoping to apply, a creator looking to collaborate, or simply curious about how the BBC Digital Accelerator could help you grow, complete our expression of interest today.
PLANS for a world-class film studio complex are being presented to the investment market, with the aim to put in place a final funder and developer later this year.
Sunderland City Council as land-owner and project lead is moving to test the appetite of the wider investment market for the Crown Works Film Studios opportunity, and is appointing a specialist agent who will be engaging investors, including the likes of Fulwell Entertainment who were part of the joint venture which first tabled proposals for a North East studio and continue to champion the project.
The council have confirmed that – as is necessary in public sector projects – they will be testing the investment market, to ensure that they secure the best partner to push ahead with the studio plans. The process, which will take place over the coming months, gives interested parties a window of opportunity to commit to develop the first phase of the studios. A final decision will then be made by Sunderland City Council on who will progress with the studios.
As the development of Crown Works Studios, which has been backed by North East Mayor Kim McGuinness, will involve considerable public sector support in both grant and the disposal 30 hectares of land on the banks of the Wear – market testing is required to ensure the proposed developer(s) plans represent the best opportunity for the project to demonstrate the return required on the public investment.
Councillor Michael Mordey, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “These studios represent a game-changing opportunity for the city and we cannot wait to see them progress.
“There’s an absolute commitment to deliver the best possible delivery partner to move this forward and we expect that we will have funding confirmed and ready to progress the first phase of the studios by the time remediation works complete later this year.”
A programme of remediation work is now on-site, instructed by Sunderland City Council using funding from UK Government unlocked through the North East Combined Authority, to prepare the former Crown Works site for development.
Planning permission has been secured for Crown Works Studios and a total funding package worth £120m to support its development is available, thanks partly to the efforts of the local authority in lobbying Government to support the development of a film studios on the site.
The Government’s support for Crown Works – which was channelled via the North East Combined Authority – represents a significant incentive that underpins the commercial viability of the scheme for investors looking to get involved in the first phase of its development.
Fulwell Entertainment remains a committed champion of the scheme. Other key supporters include North East Screen, the region’s screen agency, which is headquartered in Sunderland.
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said: “We have big ambitions to grow the North East’s creative sector and Crown Works Studios in Sunderland is a key element of our vision, alongside opening the first major label recording studio in the region and opening a national centre for new writing.
“We’re supporting Sunderland City Council in the job of preparing the site, which can eventually be the largest film and TV production complex in the UK outside of London and the South East.
“In the process we’ll create thousands of new jobs for local people and end the days where people have to leave the North East to pursue a career in creative industries. This is why the project has to date secured a public sector funding package worth £120m including £25m which we have put in to begin preparation of the site at Pallion on Sunderland Riverside. We remain confident that this will be a flagship site in a thriving industry for years to come.”
The studios will provide infrastructure that North East Screen Chief Executive Alison Gwynn said will underpin the region’s success in the sector.
She said: “The region is 100% committed to studio development as part of their support for the wider creative industry.
“Film and TV production in the North East is up 131% over the last three years and we recently saw one of the most eagerly anticipated blockbusters, 28 Years Later, showcase not only some outstanding locations, but also some epic scenes created here in our alternative studio space. Not only did they shoot more than 80% of the film in the region, but they also were based here for over nine months.”
“We are now excited to be looking for the right investor for the next stage of our regions growth. The North East have never been in a better position to make the most of these exciting opportunities.”
Creative Industries are at the heart of Government’s priorities in its Industrial Strategy. It is one of eight key growth sectors identified in the Strategy, with a published Sector Plan demonstrating a commitment to investment, IP protection and enhanced R&D for the sector.
On Thursday 19th June, one of the most hotly anticipated films of the year, 28 Years Later, will have a special North East Gala Screening at the Tyneside Cinema, Newcastle. The film’s Director, Danny Boyle, and Newcastle-native actor, Alfie Williams, who makes his feature film debut in 28 Years Later, will be attending.
In partnership with the North East Combined Authority, Destination North East, Tyneside Cinema and Visit Britain, North East Screen will be rolling out the black carpet for invited guests and media to celebrate the franchise film that was predominantly filmed within the North East. The screening will also be attended by North East crew, extras and location providers who were all involved in the film’s production.
Kim McGuiness, North East Mayor said,
“The North East Gala Screening will be one of the largest screen events held in the North East for some time. The film will have wide global reach and we are proud that people will see the North East as the stunning backdrop to this film as well as see the work of our world class talented crew, suppliers and facilities. The North East welcomes more filming and 28 Years Later proves we can be a home for world class film and TV production creating more jobs for local people.”
Gayle Woodruffe, Operations Director at North East Screen commented,
“We are delighted to welcome Danny, Alfie and so many of our amazingly talented North East Crew to this special preview screening of 28 Years Later, made right here in the North East. The team made excellent use of the diversity and versatility of locations available in our region and the film promotes the North East of England as a viable home for major feature films and HETV drama.”
Nic Greenan, Chief Executive at the Tyneside Cinema added,
“This is such an important moment for The Tyneside Cinema, and hosting such a prestigious screening will make this heritage venue the number one place to see and experience the film in the region where it was filmed.”
Ian Thomas, Chief Operating Officer of NewcastleGateshead Initiative on behalf of Destination North East Englandsaid,
“To have such a massive blockbuster as 28 Years Later both be set and filmed in the region is fantastic, shining a spotlight on our tranquil countryside, dramatic coastlines and vibrant towns and cities to cinema goers around the world. It will be a huge draw for visitors eager to explore our stunning landscapes and walk in the footsteps of the film’s stars. Alongside a multi-channel tourism campaign we’re delivering in partnership with Visit Britain and Sony Pictures, we’re proud to support the regional gala screening, a huge coup for the city, and to welcome the film’s director and passionate advocate for Northern England Danny Boyle back to the area to unleash the latest instalment on the viewing public! Visit North East England… if you dare!”
Patricia Yates, CEO VisitBritain said,
“The North East Gala Screeningwill truly put Newcastle and the North East centre-stage. With the starring role destinations across the region have played in the film there could not be a more fitting place to host a screening, inspiring visitors to go out and explore the locations seen on screen.It is also timely as VisitBritain rolls out its international ‘Starring GREAT Britain campaign’. Using films and TV shows as the hook the campaign is telling the story of our dynamic and diverse destinations including the North East, encouraging people to put themselves in the picture and book a trip to Britain right now, driving visitor spending into local economies.”
Academy Award®-winning director Danny Boyle and Academy Award®-nominated writer Alex Garland reunite for 28 YEARS LATER, a terrifying new “auteur horror” story set in the world created by 28 Days Later. It’s been almost three decades since the rage virus escaped a biological weapons laboratory, and now, still in a ruthlessly enforced quarantine, some have found ways to exist amidst the infected. One such group of survivors lives on a small island connected to the mainland by a single, heavily defended causeway. When one of the group leaves the island on a mission into the dark heart of the mainland, he discovers secrets, wonders, and horrors that have mutated not only the infected but other survivors as well.
Columbia Pictures presents 28 YEARS LATER. The film stars Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jack O’Connell, Alfie Williams and Ralph Fiennes. Directed By Danny Boyle. Written by Alex Garland. Produced by Andrew Macdonald, Peter Rice, Bernard Bellew, Danny Boyle, Alex Garland. Executive producer is Cillian Murphy. The director of photography is Anthony Dod Mantle ASC, BSC, DFF. The editor is Jon Harris. Production & costume designers are Gareth Pugh and Carson McColl. Music by Young Fathers. Casting by Gail Stevens CDG and Rebecca Farhall.
Screen Alliance North, the northern screen industry skills cluster, (thanks to support from the BFI awarding National Lottery funding), is working closely with sustainability consultants Picture Zero to establish a new Sustainability Working Group.
Made up of members representing a cross section of industry professionals who are interested in improving sustainable practices, the north-wide peer group will be run by Picture Zero on behalf of Screen Alliance North and is sponsored by Sunbelt Rentals.
Representatives from ITV, BBC, Channel 4, 5, BFI and Heads of Department in the industry will implement sustainable working practices across production companies, freelance crew, new entrants and on all types of productions shooting in the North.
Penny Hall, Skills Cluster Lead at Screen Alliance North, said;
“We continue to work towards our aim of becoming a beacon of sustainable good practice and are establishing this group to allow us to communicate sustainability messages across the industry. Members of the group are at a senior level with significant experience of working on productions in the North. They will be sharing best practice, advocate for sustainable practices and aim to positively influence productions and crew.
The group will meet four times a year to workshop solutions, share resources and use their network to drive change ultimately feeding into a joined-up set of criteria for productions to adhere to when filming anywhere in the North.”
Eve Stollery, Picture Zero, added;
“Reducing the environmental impact of production and putting climate messaging on screen requires action right from the start. The earlier sustainability is considered, the bigger the difference the production can make. We hope through working closely with Screen Alliance North and members of the Sustainability Working Group we can find ways to affect change early in the production process, communicate best practice and share new sustainable ways of working.
We are delighted to be collaborating with Screen Alliance North and I look forward to meeting with members and working towards a greener and more sustainable northern screen industry.”
Jenny Clark, Partnerships and Development Manager at Sunbelt Rentals UK and Ireland, said;
“We are proud to support the Sustainability Working Group in their mission to create a more sustainable future for the screen industry. By partnering with innovators and leaders, we can drive meaningful change that reduces environmental impact and sets new standards for sustainability across the sector. Together, we’re committed to a greener, more responsible future for production, and we look forward to being part of this transformative journey.”
Screen Alliance North are looking for sponsors for various elements of the Sustainability Working Group – meetings, a suppliers list, newsletter and programme of activity. If this is something your company would be interested in, please contact eve@picturezero.com.
