Production Apprenticeship Review

I have a varied role as a BBC Production Apprentice. I research animals and locations for potential shows and complete general admin tasks, such as updating whiteboards and spread-sheets and ordering equipment. There is also plenty of opportunities to get on-set experience as a runner or seat filler for shows.

I have learnt lots of new skills and developed plenty of my existing skills. I have developed communication skills and research skills. I have gained an actual understanding on the day-to-day life of someone working in TV and the different job roles. I have gained lots of creative based skills.

I am really enjoying my programme. I am learning new things which can be used in any creative industry. I feel supported both in the workplace and college. There are lots of exciting perks to this job too, such as screenings and helping on shows I have watched for years.

I think my course is structured well. There is two six month work placements. The college side of the course is structured well, with clear timetables and homework. There is a structured welfare part of the course with two month sessions with your placement boss and college teacher at work.

The BBC has an Academy team which looks after the trainees and apprentices. The team check up on you in person every couple of months and are always available via e-mail. The placement teams you are put with have understanding bosses who support you and guide you through your course.

I receive support from my training provider. Every six weeks a college teacher comes into the workplace to discuss how we are getting on and set us homework. Every two months there is a meeting with a college teacher and our placement boss to discuss how everyone is getting on.

I think my qualification helps me to perform better in my job. I am able to understand new softwares, such as Adobe InDesign which I can use when presenting information to colleagues. I also learn business skills, such as budgeting which I can relate to my job when researching locations.

There are plenty of professional networking events to go to. Every couple of months there is a department screening, where you can learn what other teams are creating and meet lots of new people. There are also social clubs running at lunchtimes, such as an LGBT+ club and disability group.

Yes

Everyone working at the BBC is friendly and want you to achieve your best whilst working at the company. You learn new skills which you can bring into any creative industry and will have a top media company on your CV. Great work perks and a healthy work/life balance.

The BBC look for individuality so I think it is important to be your genuine self and have unique opinions and ideas. Perhaps, when answering a question you could back it up with evidence from your life, such a school subject you took or any work experience you might have.