Film and TV industry engages youth in £5 billion skills initiative
Film and television executives are mobilising their resources to uplift the skills of young people in a bid to strengthen the £5 billion industry. Welfare Secretary Pat McFadden is championing a new scheme aimed at providing education, training, and employment opportunities for nearly one million youngsters not currently engaged in formal education or work, reports BritPanorama.
Pinewood Studios, renowned for its association with major franchises such as James Bond, is at the forefront of this initiative, having hosted a roundtable discussion with industry leaders from companies like Netflix, Disney, Amazon, MGM, and Vue. The meeting served to underscore the collaborative efforts between government and industry to address youth unemployment.
During the annual Futures Festival held today, McFadden urged the entire sector to support the Youth Guarantee scheme, which offers young people work experience, training, or guaranteed employment opportunities. “With almost a million young people not in education, employment, or training, we need to create pathways of opportunity and help them build careers,” he asserted.
McFadden further highlighted the mutual benefits of apprenticeships, stating, “Today’s festival has shown what’s possible when government and industry work together. Apprenticeships benefit everyone – young people gain skills and experience, while employers gain fresh talent and new perspectives.” He expressed contentment that Pinewood Studios is backing the initiative and encouraged other employers in the creative sector to open their doors to emerging talent.
The Pinewood Group echoed this sentiment, affirming its commitment to facilitating access to the industry. Their ‘Behind the Screen’ programme provides paid placements for individuals currently out of work, showcasing hands-on experiences that foster the next generation of talent.
The Youth Guarantee scheme has already received endorsements from notable organisations, including the Premier League and the Royal Shakespeare Company, indicating a growing recognition of the need to invest in young people’s potential.
As the creative industries continue to evolve, collaborative efforts like these may prove essential in addressing the pressing issue of youth unemployment while also ensuring the industry’s sustained growth.
In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and shifting workplace paradigms, the proactive involvement of educational institutions and businesses in nurturing young talent becomes crucial. Such partnerships not only facilitate immediate employment opportunities but also serve to cultivate a skilled workforce prepared to meet future challenges.
