Applications are now open to join the Unscripted TV Skills Fund’s renowned series producer programme. Returning for its seventh iteration, the programme is open to new series producers or experienced producers seeking a first SP credit based outside of London and the South East.
The programme was designed in 2016 to develop the next generation of showrunners by providing them with the knowledge, skills and network to progress into a leadership role with confidence and form the cornerstones of UK television. Since its launch, members of its 135 strong alumni have begun roles as commissioners at BBC, Channel 4, ITV, UKTV, Sky, Netflix, Amazon and Viacom.
The six-month programme, delivered by Glasgow-based training provider TRC Media, will see successful applicants receive in-person and online training sessions, access to leading broadcasters and commissioners, and an industry mentor assigned to them from a partnering broadcaster or production company. The training is designed to marry the skills required for leadership and line management with practical implementable tools, both of which are needed to succeed at such a level.
Sarah Joyce, the Head of Unscripted TV at Screen Skills added: “I am delighted that our Series Producer Programme, funded by the Unscripted TV Fund, is returning for its seventh iteration. With applications open to those based outside London and the South East, the programme underlines the Fund’s commitment to providing training for crew across the nations and regions. We look forward to working with TRC to help talented individuals progress their careers in unscripted television.”
Claire Scally, Managing Director of TRC commented: “We are thrilled that TRC will once again be delivering this year’s edition of the Series Producer Programme following a very successful edition in 2022. This prestigious programme has played a vital role in helping professionals across the regions and nations advance their careers, and we look forward to supporting the next generation of Series Producers thrive in the current TV landscape."
Holly Cocker is a producer who took part in the programme’s last iteration. She said: “It was absolutely life changing! My career goals are reachable, I’ve made an amazing set of friends for life and I feel like I’ve emerged as a confident, experienced, knowledgeable SP.”
Catrin Honeybill was a fellow member of the programme’s sixth cohort. She said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to raise your head about the parapet and get to feel like a part of a talented Nations and Regions scene. The chance to meet others at a similar career point is invaluable. It has been rewarding to spend time on my professional development, recognise my place within a national industry, identify and move towards career goals and growing my network and experiences. My confidence, skillset and range of contacts has improved immensely.”
Since taking part in the programme, Valerie Mellon has secured her first series producer role. She said: "I’ve officially started my first SP role. This course has definitely been behind people in the industry thinking of me in different way, in a team leadership role. And even more importantly with the training I’m confident to do it."
Apply to take part
Find out more about the programme and apply