Following the success of the 2021 programmes, the Grierson DocLab In Focus training schemes are now open for applicants to its two courses, for production management and assistant editing.
The training programmes each have places for eight trainees. Both schemes have been created with support from Netflix and other industry experts from across the documentary industry. As part of the course, all trainees will be provided with a placement on a Netflix production and will be partnered with an industry mentor.
Jane Callaghan, managing director of The Grierson Trust, said: “The Grierson Trust is recognised as one of the industry’s leading training providers, specifically supporting under-represented groups into documentaries through our successful DocLab schemes. This DocLab In Focus partnership with Netflix enables us to continue to support fresh talent into the industry, focusing on the roles where it is needed most. In doing so we are doing our bit to unlock new voices and support the wider industry skills gaps from the grassroots up.”
Kate Townsend, director, Original Documentary Features, Netflix said: “Editing and production are key parts of the creative process, and we are proud to support training that develops these vital skills. This partnership is part of Netflix’s wider work to improve representation at all levels of the creative process and spread opportunity right across the UK.”
Margarida Cartaxto was one of the inaugural 2021 Editors cohort. Encouraging others to apply, she explains how the programme and her placement changed her career: “As an edit assistant, I had the technical background aspect covered for my placement but what truly changed and shaped this entire experience for me was the opportunity to be involved in the creative side of things. I was working alongside the incredible and highly experienced editor, Joby Gee, who welcomed my opinions and would take them into account when shaping the story. It was truly an exceptional experience. This scheme and placement changed my life. It opened so many doors and opportunities for me that I wouldn’t have had any other way. I met incredible people, learned a lot about editing and telling stories, and even got a BFE nomination for the Michael Johns Award for Best Outstanding Assistant Editor 2022.”
Grierson DocLab In Focus: Production Management is for individuals who want to work on the production side of documentary programme-making, which seeks those who are highly organised, good communicators and creative problem-solvers. It is designed for people both with and without previous experience in the television industry and is also open to individuals returning to work after a break or looking for a career change. There are eight places available. The programme will involve an intensive schedule with industry speakers covering a wide range of topics including budgeting, cash flow and production paperwork; health and safety and risk assessments; managing and looking after personnel; understanding deliverables; the importance of diversity and inclusion on productions; as well looking at when to step up to the next level in a career.
Grierson DocLab In Focus: Editing has eight places available to trainee editors who want to learn the art and craft of narrative storytelling. Those applying should already have technical skills and be able to edit in Avid Media Composer or other editing software (though the course will be taught on Avid). The programme will involve a rigorous schedule with leading industry speakers covering topics such as: managing the relationship with the director; insight and case studies from editors about how they have developed their respective careers; and how to enhance the story and challenges in the edit. This scheme will be an opportunity to develop and hone creative skills, moving from the technical ability to edit, to making artistic decisions to create the story in the edit.
The Trust particularly encourages applications from groups currently under-represented in the industry, including but not limited to: disabled people; those from minority ethnic backgrounds; people from the LGBTQ+ community; and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds. We also encourage applications from candidates in geographical areas across the UK that do not have many opportunities in the screen industries. This is in line with the positive action provision of the Equality Act 2010.
Full details of application criteria, forms, dates, and deadlines, can be found at griersontrust.org/outreach. There will also be special webinars for both schemes where prospective applicants can attend to ask question of the Grierson team, Netflix and past participants of each scheme. Applicants for the editing scheme are expected to be technically proficient and skilled editors at the time of applying. The closing date for both schemes is Friday, 8 July 2022.
Pippa Considine
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