Written by Shona Smith on May 8, 2019. Posted in General Interest

Screen Yorkshire and Bradford Council launch ‘Beyond Brontës’ skills programme to address diversity in the screen industries

The scheme launches as Screen Yorkshire looks to develop talent as part of its strategy to secure continued growth in film & TV production levels. Channel 4 is set to begin moving its National Headquarters to Leeds in the second half of 2019, estimated to bring a high number of regional jobs, while Screen Yorkshire launched its region wide film Office in 2018. 

Sam Fray, ‘Beyond Brontës’ Programme Manager at Screen Yorkshire says that “whilst there is strong interest in the film & TV production sector amongst our region’s young people, representation by ethnic minorities and those from working class communities remains very low. ‘Beyond Brontës’ aims to address this by supporting young people to develop the skills, confidence and connections to succeed in the screen industries”.

The scheme will offer targeted support to those wishing to enter the industry across a wide range of disciplines, including (but not limited to) make-up, set design, accountancy, editing and research. Applications are now open for the courses tailored to the needs of individuals, with modules including internships, careers information, one to one support, training and mentoring.

Laura Boswell, 4Talent, Channel 4 says “The ‘Beyond Brontës’ programme is a great example of the collaboration that in already underway between Channel 4 and partners in the in the region as we look to establish our new National HQ in Leeds later this year. We’re delighted to be working with Screen Yorkshire and Bradford Metropolitan District Council to create high-quality opportunities for young people from diverse backgrounds to begin their careers in the TV industry, which is a top priority for Channel 4. This initiative will support the region in developing a strong grassroots pipeline of talent, which will become a huge asset to the local production industry in the future”.

At the time of the Channel 4’s announcement in November, 2018 Alex Mahon, Channel 4 Chief Executive reasoned that “Leeds put forward a compelling and ambitious strategy for how they could work alongside Channel 4 to further build the strong independent production sector in the city and develop new diverse talent from across the region.” The ‘Beyond Brontës’ program is one such initiative to deliver this strategy.

Applications are open to young people aged between 18 – 24 years old in the Leeds City Region until 3 June 2019.