We are extremely proud to be participating in the launch of Bring to Light, a two-year programme training eight electricians to become qualified lighting technicians for the film and TV industry. Electricians and other below the line crew are in high demand, with a third of film and TV producers reporting a skills shortage. The programme is jointly funded by Netflix and MBS Equipment Company.
Bring to Light will be open to electricians with a minimum of a level two electrical installation qualification and will be based at MBSE in Colnbrook with placements at Shepperton Studios, Netflix’s permanent UK production base. Trainees will be selected from the local community, those from underrepresented communities are particularly encouraged to apply.
In light of recent Government announcements on a third England-wide national lockdown, Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden has confirmed that production will still be exempt. As such, the Bring to Light training scheme will only take place under strict safety protocols to ensure COVID-19 secure conditions.
The UK is Netflix’s most important international production hub. This year, investment doubled to $1bn, with more than 50 original shows being filmed across the country including Manchester, Newport, Sheffield, Liverpool, Edinburgh and London and 5,000 jobs created.
”The global appetite for British content has meant unprecedented levels of investment, but as the industry grows the need for talent in a wide range of production roles intensifies. Bring to Light will train qualified electricians from Shepperton and its surrounding areas in the core skills needed to work in the film and television industry. The programme aims to open trainees eyes to the world of opportunities available to them, and build networks that will help support successful careers.
Alison SmallCreative Talent Investment & Development UK manager for Netflix
Over the course of the programme, trainees will follow a skills based curriculum and work on Netflix shows at Shepperton studios. Trainees will also be a part of the wider Netflix trainee family with access to mentoring, Netflix executives and networking events. Trainees will be paid the London Living wage and the programme will last for two years.
”At MBSE, we’re immensely proud of our track record in supporting trainees and bringing in new talent to our industry. We are delighted to be working in partnership with Netflix as we create exciting new opportunities to support a new generation of British talent to become an integral part of the UK production community.
Darren SmithManaging Director Europe at MBSE UK
Today’s announcement is part of GrowUK@Netflix, our long-term commitment to training and investment to address the skills gaps, spreading opportunity across the UK and driving through diversity and inclusion to nurture the next generation of British talent.
