Netflix launches new training programme for next generation of UK creatives

Netflix will invest £1.2m in its new training programme for the creative industry that will help develop and support the careers and training of up to 1000 people across the UK through its own productions, its partners and education institutions.

‘Grow Creative UK’ will focus on upskilling below the line new and emerging British talent, especially those from diverse backgrounds. The programme forms part of Netflix’s long term ambition to provide the greatest number of training opportunities across High End TV and Film in the UK.

Netflix UK training manager, Alison Small, said: “The UK is a hugely important market for us and we invest more in production here than anywhere else outside of the US and Canada. Grow Creative UK will help bridge the skills gap, upskill experienced crew and improve diversity head-on. It will also build on our long-term ambition to be the studio that provides the most training opportunities in the UK.”

Netflix will provide training opportunities on its UK-based, best-in-class, scripted and non-scripted productions, including Sex Education, The Witcher and Top Boy, as well as with production and industry partners.

As part of the programme, Netflix is also working closely with some of the industry’s leading arts and media training providers. This includes investing an additional £300,000 over the next three years into The London Screen Academy, a free sixth form academy that is redefining creative education. It follows Netflix’s initial £300,000 investment last year.

Over the past 12 months, Netflix has invested an additional £1.5m to bring more diverse voices into the industry, supporting a number of organisations including the Identity School of Acting, MAMA Youth Project and Million Youth Media, charities that provide young people with the skills, networks and training to break into the industry. This is in addition to the launch of the inaugural Documentary Talent Fund and the Biska K Ali Netflix Screenwriters Fellowship in association with Sky, two in house programmes designed to bring new voices into the industry.