ScreenSkills publishes five-year strategy

ScreenSkills has unveiled a new long-term vision to shape the future of the UK’s screen industries, introducing an ambitious five-year strategy aimed at building a world-leading, inclusive, and agile workforce capable of meeting the evolving demands of the sector. This strategy, informed by broad consultation with industry professionals and key stakeholders, responds to the recommendations from the DCMS-commissioned BFI Skills Review and the Screen Sectors Skills Task Force.

Rooted in innovative and collaborative partnerships with organisations such as the BBC, Channel 4, and Create Central, the strategy employs a data-driven approach, using regular workforce assessments and skills audits to identify skills gaps and ensure training meets the future needs of the industry. Sector-wide data analytics will guide interventions across all regions and sectors, ensuring more targeted responses to workforce challenges.

The strategy outlines a vision for identifying and addressing current and future skills gaps across the UK, ensuring that training remains accessible, high-quality, and inclusive. ScreenSkills will work closely with training providers and the education sector to streamline career progression, while partnerships with organisations such as the Creative Diversity Network and the Sutton Trust will focus on improving access for underrepresented groups.

Furthermore, the strategy includes initiatives aimed at developing skills in emerging technologies, ensuring the workforce is prepared for the future of digital media, gaming, VFX, and post-production. A key focus is on future technological skills such as virtual production and artificial intelligence (AI), helping the workforce stay ahead of technological advancements.

ScreenSkills will also transform its governance structure, moving to a smaller, more diverse Board of Trustees so that ScreenSkills can respond more swiftly to both immediate challenges and long-term opportunities.