ScreenWorks helps young people into industry

ScreenWorks is a new pilot project supported by the Department for Communities which will give up to 150 participants the chance to explore careers in screen craft; offering work experience placements with award-winning artists and technicians who worked on productions such as Game of Thrones, Krypton, Mrs Wilson, The Hobbit and Fantastic Beasts.

Each participant will learn about a craft or technical role in the industry by taking part in a three to five-day work placement.

Among the disciplines being covered are: prosthetics, wigs and hair, make-up, costume, visual and special effects, animation, concept art, set construction and props, sound and coding and interactive media.

Queen’s University will also host a three-day Broadcasting and Film Making workshop as part of the programme. The dates for the workshop will be announced on the Into Film website in due course.

“Skills development is key to the growth of the screen industries in Northern Ireland and we are grateful for the support from the Department for Communities to be able to launch ScreenWorks,” said NI Screen CEO Richard William.

“Designed to help young people find their way into the industry, we hope that ScreenWorks will provide participants with increased awareness and understanding of the variety of roles available and help them choose education pathways that could help fulfil their ambitions.”

Project co-ordinator Sean Boyle from Into Film said now was the ideal time to seek out a career in the industry.

“There is a real need to train the next generation of artists and technicians to keep pace with demand for these highly skilled, creative jobs in film, TV, animation and gaming. Many young people, as well as parents and careers advisors, will be unaware of some of the amazing opportunities out there.”