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Producers turn ideas for potential films and TV programmes into reality. They put together the creative team to make and broadcast productions.
You could work: evenings / weekends / bank holidays; away from home
As a TV or film producer, you could:
You could work in an office, at a TV studio, at a film studio or on a film set.
Your working environment may be outdoors some of the time and you may spend nights away from home.
You can get into this job through:
You could do a degree in film or television production before applying for work with a production company.
You'll find it helpful to take a course that includes practical skills and work placements, which will give you the chance to make industry contacts.
You'll usually need:
You could start by doing a college course, which may help you to get a job as a production assistant or runner. Courses include:
With experience, and further training, you could move on to become a producer.
You could apply for a place on a Broadcast Production Assistant Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
This can take between 1 and 2 years to complete. It combines on-the-job training and time spent with a college or learning provider.
You'll usually need:
You could start out as a:
You may be able to move into production work as your skills and experience grow.
It's important to get as much practical production experience as you can, for example through:
You can search for film and TV companies to approach for opportunities through media business listing services, such as PACT and The Knowledge.
You may be able to join a training scheme to develop your skills and make contacts in the industry. Find out more from:
Some private training providers, film schools and agencies run short courses in production skills.
To do this job, you'll need a lot of experience in both the creative and business sides of film or programme making. You'll also need an in-depth understanding of the production process.
You can get advice about how to build a network of contacts in the industry, which may lead to training and work opportunities.
You can join The Production Guild, for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Find out more about working in TV or film from:ScreenSkills; Discover Creative Careers; Get Into Film
With experience, you could become an executive producer, or set up your own production company.
You can find out more about becoming a TV or film producer from ScreenSkills and ProductionBase.