Glasgow-based training provider TRC has announced the return of their TV traineeship for underrepresented talent rad Scotland.
Now in its fifth iteration, the highly respected rad training programme aims to create the next wave of TV production talent and facilitate diversity within the industry.
Over the course of eight months, the trainees will learn all the skills necessary to build their career in the TV industry and will undertake a paid placement with a Scottish production company. The programme was specifically created for those who are underrepresented in the TV industry: those who are either deaf, disabled and/or neurodivergent, from Black, Asian or minority ethnic communities or from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
TRC is committed to ensuring trainees have the support needed to succeed in the industry, both during the traineeship and in the years that follow, particularly important in light of the recent challenges faced by the sector.
Successful applicants will be placed in one of the following roles within a selected production company: Researcher (Production or Development), Edit Assistant and Production Assistant. Training will also be provided for the host companies to develop and sustain equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
TRC has successfully delivered rad in Scotland for the past four years, hosting 44 participants throughout the lifetime of the programme, with excellent retention rates. Following the end of the most recent rad programme, 85% of rad trainees found immediate work at the end of their traineeship.
Applications for the programme are now open, with a deadline of Tuesday 14th May 2024 and can be submitted online.
The programme is funded by Screen Scotland, BBC Nations and Regions, Channel 4 and BBC Studios.
Claire Scally, Managing Director of TRC commented: “Since its creation in 2019, our rad traineeship has helped 56 delegates make the move into the TV sector in Scotland and Wales and continues to provide support to alumni long after they take part in the programme. We look forward to continuing to create a more inclusive TV industry and are grateful for the ongoing support of the funding partners and participating production companies.”
Alf Payne, who took part in the 2023 programme as a Researcher for BBC Studios Science, said: “After years of unsuccessfully trying to break into specialist-factual programming, and starting to question if it could ever be a viable career path, TRC's rad programme has opened doors that felt locked shut. In a period of uncertainty and flux for the industry, programs like these are a fantastic way to get new entrants into the industry.
"I've since achieved two credits as a researcher and built the beginnings of a network that are looking to support me and help me find opportunities from now into the future. I've been offered the opportunity to prove myself in front of talent, execs and senior management, and can't wait to start paying it all forward!”
Scottish indies have welcomed the return of this scheme. Production companies who have previously taken part in rad Scotland include BBC Studios, Hello Halo, Hopscotch, IWC Media, Firecrest Films, Sunset + Vine, STV Studios and Raise the Roof Productions.
More information
TRC is one of the UK’s leading training providers for Broadcast and Digital. TRC is a registered charity based in Glasgow, funded by Screen Scotland, BBC Nations and Regions and Channel 4.
Screen Scotland drives development of all aspects of Scotland’s film and TV industry, through funding and strategic support. Screen Scotland is part of Creative Scotland and delivers these services and support with funding from Scottish Government and The National Lottery.