Celebrating the success of SCREEN: Innovative cluster delivers training to 500 in inaugural year
Date Posted: April 11, 2024
Industry, education, and training providers across Northern Ireland have been working together as part of the SCREEN cluster delivered by Northern Ireland Screen to support the skills development and professional growth of existing local crew and aspiring crew.
The SCREEN cluster, one of six clusters across the UK funded by National Lottery funding from the British Film Institute (BFI) responding directly to recommendations in the BFI Skills Review to make the sector more accessible and representative; and build a skilled workforce across the UK.
In its inaugural year the SCREEN cluster has collaborated with 100 organisations, delivering essential training to empower over 500 individuals. Underpinned by a steering group with representatives from across the screen industry and in consultation with industry the SCREEN cluster training was created and delivered across three distinct strands; pathways to success: bridging the gap between education and the screen industry, continued professional development for those already employed in the industry and innovative technologies.
Andrew Reid, Chief Content Officer at Northern Ireland Screen commented: “ As we reflect on the first year of the SCREEN cluster, it’s clear its success has been the result of consistent engagement between industry and education. The cluster, underpinned by an energetic and vocal steering group, has created a comprehensive ecosystem for skills enhancement and career advancement within the screen industry in Northern Ireland. The work of the cluster underscores the critical role of strategic collaboration and investment in nurturing talent and fostering growth within regional screen sectors. As the programme continues to evolve, it remains committed to empowering individuals and organisations alike, ensuring Northern Ireland remains a vibrant hub for screen production.”
Under the pathways strand, initiatives such as “Set Ready” provided an overview of the film & TV industry, including panel discussions, benefiting over 80 students. Additionally, “Employability Clinics” saw 10 industry professionals deliver sessions for students, with 100 participants across two pilot clinics. “Film 101” provided 16 participants in Derry-Londonderry with hands-on experience in various film roles, from sound to costume. Furthermore, a collaborative event with the Production Guild Great Britain, “Production Accountancy Event,” featured industry experts like Michael Kilpatrick and Ruby Avards, enlightening attendees on accountancy roles in the industry.
In the CPD strand, courses such as “Camera Operator Course” delivered by Sunbelt Rentals focused on upskilling camera department personnel, while “Advanced Leadership and Management” provided training and coaching to senior level crew. Notably, “Equality, Diversity and Inclusion training” covered vital topics including Neurodiversity and Mental Health First Aid. Moreover, “Wellbeing Facilitators training” equipped six professionals to consult on productions regarding mental health and wellbeing.
Under the innovative and technologies strand, participants underwent extensive training in Avid Media Composer and Toon Boom, with certifications earned in Avid 101 and 110. “Animotive” sessions delivered by RETìníZE allowed participants to explore 2D and 3D animation for virtual production, while “Virtual Art Dept” and “Colour Management” courses provided insights into cutting-edge technologies and workflows.
For more information about the SCREEN cluster and its initiatives, please visit SCREEN Cluster – Northern Ireland Screen
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