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Television production assistant: Entry requirements

This area of work is open to all graduates. People in the industry often believe it is more useful to have a qualification in a discipline other than media to demonstrate knowledge of different subjects, with relevant media training gained on the job. It can be considered useful, however, to study some media degree modules in a minor capacity, and many production companies provide an extensive range of training opportunities for employees once in the role. The following degree/HND subjects may increase your chances of success; business-related studies, history, engineering, English and literary studies, and political and social sciences.

Entry without a degree or HND is possible but the industry is becoming increasingly competitive and more entrants are now educated to degree level. It is more important, however, to have work experience, enthusiasm and contacts than qualifications so an interest in and knowledge of the industry, ability to network and promote yourself well, and a willingness to work for free, will help significantly. A postgraduate course can help increase your practical skills although it is not considered essential. For details of courses, see the Prospects Postgraduate Directory. With media qualifications, it is always important to ask about accreditation by industry bodies as well as opportunities for placements and using equipment.

Media experience is crucial. It is possible to gain experience from your course, university television unit or film-making society. Volunteering on a local community film project or the local hospital radio station, entering media competitions, applying for awards and building up a portfolio of work will all help. Candidates need to show evidence of the following:

excellent communication and interpersonal skills, the ability to work effectively as part of a team and alone, stamina, persistence, enthusiasm, motivation and a proactive manner;
the ability to remain calm and level-headed under pressure as well as being able to demonstrate initiative, flexibility, adaptability, common sense and problem-solving skills as unexpected issues may arise regularly and need to be dealt with in a calm and efficient manner;
sound administrative and organisational skills, a good level of numeracy, and fast, accurate word processing skills with the ability to prioritise and cope with last-minute changes (e.g. to scripts) whilst under pressure.

It is important to make your CV as impressive and diverse as possible. Tell prospective employers if you have a driving licence and own transport; knowledge and experience of different cultures; ability to speak different languages; contacts in other industries and countries; etc. Having skills and experiences that make you stand out from other candidates as well as commitment, passion and drive is what the industry demands. Candidates with a background in journalism, research, business, accountancy, law, engineering, management, politics, etc. are welcomed, as their knowledge can be relevant and useful.

Media directories, such as The Knowledge and the PACT Directory of Independent Producers , list addresses, named contacts and information on productions. Find out what is going on in the industry by reading the media press, in particular Broadcast and The Guardian on a Monday.

The majority of vacancies are rarely advertised. Networking and persistence is vital for hearing about opportunities. Contact production companies, independent film makers, or local TV and radio stations for paid or unpaid work opportunities. Some companies offer unpaid work experience, but you may have to approach them a few times as both the timing of your application and their recruitment needs will affect whether you are successful each time. The minimum wage legislation can make unpaid work experience a grey area, but if you are working solely in order to gain skills, it is legal for you to work unpaid. In TV production, it is highly unlikely you will secure paid work without having done a substantial amount of unpaid work to strengthen your CV first. Skillset has published Guidelines for Work Experience Placements in the TV Industry. Although these are aimed at employers, they contain useful information that will help candidates understand their rights. The BBC offers a limited number of work experience placements, for which competition is fierce. These can be viewed at BBC Work Experience .

It is illegal for employers to discriminate against candidates on the grounds of age, race, disability, sexual orientation or religious faith. For more information on equality and diversity in the job market and how to handle discrimination, see Handling Discrimination.

For more information see work experience and find courses and research.

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