Unscripted Skills Fund Casting researcher training programme

The Pipeline is delighted to be working with the ScreenSkills Unscripted TV fund for this exciting new training programme which will prepare the next generation of casting researchers for the unscripted industry. 

The Unscripted Casting Researcher Programme is supported by the ScreenSkills Unscripted TV Skills Fund which invests in training for the unscripted workforce thanks to contributions from BBC, Channel 4, Sky, A+E Networks UK, Discovery UK, Channel 5, Netflix, ITV, Amazon, UKTV and S4C matched by production companies.

Who it's for

This is a highly competitive programme targeted at participants across the UK to support career development. There are 72 places available for those in the entry or early stages of their career in unscripted with a desire to start a career in casting. Knowledge of, and experience in unscripted production and the researcher role is beneficial but the programme is also open to new entrants and transferers from other industries. The training is delivered by working unscripted production professionals and will build technical, creative, professional and personal skills to enhance employment opportunities. Training is held at the weekend to allow participants to continue with work commitments during the week.

What it covers

The Unscripted Casting Researcher programme offers participants 2×2-days online industry-led training and a full one-day face-to-face workshop exploring the role of the contemporary casting researcher across the array of unscripted genres available within the UK and globally. To best prepare the participants for the nuanced role, the training will cover a range of practical, creative, and technical skills, as well as the responsibilities to compliance & broadcasting regulations including managing duty of care to oneself and others, and consideration of wellbeing. This training programme is intensive and designed for those ready step into the complex and demanding area of casting which is becoming key to successful unscripted commissions.

We always welcome applications from under-represented groups, including, but not limited to: those from Minority Ethnic Groups; people with a disability; people from the LGBTQ+ community and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds.

We offer inclusive training. If you have any needs which we can accommodate during the recruitment process and beyond, please let us know and we will be happy to work with you to meet them.

Contact: hello-pipelinemedia@salford.ac.uk

How to apply

Training begins Saturday 3rd February and is completed by Saturday 27th April 2024.

Applicants will be divided into two cohorts of 36 for the online training – delivered via Zoom – which comprises of 2 x weekend sessions with a further face-to-face workshop held in each of the regions. Both cohorts will receive the same training; by splitting the participants into 2 groups, so that we can ensure focused, interactive training sessions.

Cohort A:

• 3rd & 4th February – online
• 2nd & 3rd March 2024 – online
• 27th April – in-person – location tbc

Cohort B:

• 17th & 18th February – online
• 16th & 17th March 2024 – online
• 27th April – in-person – location tbc

Location: Online via Zoom and face-to-face workshop held regionally.

Judging information

To apply for this programme you must be age age 18 plus. There is a £50 fee for this programme.

Application deadline: Friday 5th January 2024 @5pm. 

Our application process is now open. We welcome and encourage applications from people from diverse socio-economic backgrounds; disabled applicants; Minority Ethnic applicants, LGBTQ+ and non-binary applicants.