TV and film runners work behind the scenes, doing small jobs and basic tasks to help productions run smoothly.
Starter salary not found - Experienced salary not found
37 to 39 a week (between 8am and 6pm)
You'll need:
It can be useful to be able to drive and have use of a car.
You can get into this job through:
You could do a degree course although it's not essential. Relevant subjects include:
You might find it helpful to choose a course that includes practical skills, work placements and the chance to make industry contacts.
You'll usually need:
You could take a college course, which may help you to get into the industry. Courses include:
You'll usually need:
You may be able to do an apprenticeship as a broadcast production assistant.
The BBC, ITV and Channel 4 also offer apprenticeship opportunities.
You'll usually need:
You could start by working for a sound or camera equipment hire company to get some experience.
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:
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.
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.
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.
You should show that you have administrative and organisational skills, so any previous experience in areas like office work, customer service or hospitality would be useful. Having a fast typing speed and shorthand skills may also be helpful.
You can get more information and advice about careers in film and TV from ScreenSkills and Get Into Film.
You can find out more about entry level opportunities in television from the Royal Television Society.
You can find out more about creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.
In this role you could:
You could work at a TV studio, at a film studio or on a film set.
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