Location manager : Training

There are limited formal training opportunities related to location management. It is mainly the responsibility of individuals to take the initiative in identifying and following up relevant training. The Skillset/BFI course database  lists up-to-date details of all of the media courses available in the UK.

'A Bigger Future 2' is the film skills strategy of Creative Skillset: The Sector Skills Council for the Creative Industries , which aims to meet the training and skills needs of the UK industry by delivering funding through the Film Skills Fund (FSF). A network of screen academies and a film business academy have been approved by Skillset as centres of excellence in education and training for film. Skillset also lists a range of National Occupational Standards relevant to professionals already working in this area. Browse Skillset's website for links to a network of training partners, and information about training and bursaries.

Short courses in location management are available, such as those run by The National Film and Television School . Courses may be available to freelancers at a subsidised rate through Skillset. The Guild of Location Managers (GLM) also provides training events for members, as well as opportunities to network and share good practice.

Some courses in production management may be useful to location managers as some of the skills used in these fields overlap. Maintaining and developing basic photography and video skills is also useful. Location managers working on 'stills' shoots generally train with one or two photographers over a period of time to gain experience of producing stills shoots and knowledge of photographers' technical requirements.

It is beneficial to maintain up-to-date knowledge of issues relating to health and safety by attending short courses. Public liability and legal contractual matters are other aspects to keep up with, and working with local authorities and the police requires knowledge of procedures and byelaws.