Warner Bros. Discovey’s CrewHQ opens applications for trainee programme

Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden (WBSL) announced that applications are now open for CrewHQ’s new trainee programme.

Designed to support new entrants with a pathway into film and TV production, training will be delivered by industry experts on-site at WBSL, the home of blockbuster movies such as Barbie, Wonka and The Batman.The programme is an opportunity for entry level applicants to gain skills and get one step closer to working on some of the biggest films and shows in the world.

The initiative will help develop talent and build a diverse, skilled workforce for the production office and all departments including finance, construction, costume, locations, camera, sound and more. A dedicated team of industry professionals will deliver training focused across UK based WBD feature films and TV productions; serving WBD divisions including WWB Pictures, WBTV and HBO.

Starting May 2024, participants will take part in two weeks intensive training on a range of skills including practical sessions on CV writing and interviewing, delivered by industry experts. Participants will then have access to unique opportunities across the next 12 months, including:

• Seeing behind the scenes of a film or TV production
• The chance to interview for paid placements on WBD productions
• Networking opportunities with crew

Emily Stillman, SVP Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, commented: “We look forward to welcoming our future filmmakers to train at CrewHQ. The chance to learn from leading experts and experience at a busy studio is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity which provides an invaluable route into the industry for the trainees.”

Rico Sinclair-Johnson, Training and Skills Director for CrewHQ, commented: “It’s an exciting time to be a part of our industry and Warner Bros. Discovery is putting serious resource into developing the next generation of crew; the people behind the scenes, making the magic we see on screens. The CrewHQ trainee programme will work to break down barriers for those that have been historically marginalised and commit to build a more equitable and sustainable industry for everyone. Our programme states very clearly, it’s not who you know, it’s what you know.”

In addition to on-site activity, the programme will offer careers days highlighting the breadth of roles available and inspiring the next generation of talent. These are designed to open up opportunities to new entrants as well as support those with transferable skills looking to move into the industry.

Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden (WBSL) officially opened the doors to CrewHQ, its dedicated on-site training centre, in November 2023.  Activations also include production and leadership training, funded placements, work shadowing and upskilling existing crew.

Earlier this year WBSL announced plans to expand the facility with the addition of 10 new sound stages and another 400,000 square feet of production and support space growing the production capacity at by more than 50%. The expansion will drive the creation of another 4,000 new direct and indirect jobs across the UK.