TV or film production runner

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role
• volunteering
• applying directly
• training with a professional body

University

You could do a degree course although it's not essential. Relevant subjects include:

• creative media production
• film and television production
• film and TV studies
• performing arts

You might find it helpful to choose a course that includes practical skills, work placements and the chance to make industry contacts.

Entry requirements:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

College

You could take a college course, which may help you to get into the industry. Courses include:

• Level 3 Certificate in Media Techniques
• Level 3 Diploma in Creative Media Production
• Level 3 Diploma in Performing Arts
• Level 3 Diploma in Business

Entry requirements:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course

Apprenticeship

You may be able to do an apprenticeship as a broadcast production assistant.

The BBC, ITV and Channel 4 also offer apprenticeship opportunities.

Entry requirements:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

Work

You could start by working for a sound or camera equipment hire company to get some experience.

Volunteering

Get as much practical work experience as you can. This will show employers that you're committed to learning more about the industry. You can build useful experience through activities like:

• student film or TV productions
• community or student radio
• work experience placements

You'll also get the opportunity to meet people already working in TV and film. Building a network of contacts could help you when you start looking for work.

The BBC , ITV and Channel 4 offer work experience placements, and 'insight' and 'talent days'. Competition can be tough, but if you're successful, it will help you get a better understanding of the industry.

You can search for film and TV companies to approach for experience through media business listing services like PACT and The Knowledge .

ScreenSkills also has information on finding work experience.

DirectApplication

You can apply directly to become a runner. This job is often seen as a first step into the industry and employers could be more interested in your enthusiasm and initiative than your formal qualifications. Any work experience you can get will also help.

OtherRoutes

You could join The Production Guild . It's a membership organisation for professionals working in UK film and television. It offers training including a Runner's Basic Training workshop for people who want to get into the industry.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:

• the ability to work well with others
• active listening skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of media production and communication
• to be flexible and open to change
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
• thinking and reasoning skills
• broadcasting and telecommunications knowledge
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• leadership skills
• knowledge of English language
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• concentration skills
• the ability to operate and control equipment
• the ability to work well with your hands
• the ability to use your judgement and make decisions
• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace

What you'll do:

TV and film runners work behind the scenes, doing small jobs and basic tasks to help productions run smoothly.

In this role you could:

• collect and deliver equipment and scripts
• pass on messages and post, and run errands
• file and photocopy documents
• answer the phone and greet visitors
• drive vehicles around sets or between locations
• find suitable props
• keep sets clean and tidy
• look after studio guests and provide refreshments

Location : You could work at a TV studio, at a film studio or on a film set.

Salary:

Starter : variable
Experienced : variable

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

39 - 50 hours variable

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends / bank holidays away from home

Career Path:

If you already have some industry experience or have completed training, then you may be able to apply for a ScreenSkills Trainee placement .

With experience, you could move into a production assistant, assistant producer (AP) or producer role.