Hertfordshire Futures, through its HOP brand, is spearheading initiatives to help residents break into the film and TV industry.

The HOP into Film and TV programme is designed to showcase career pathways and raise awareness of employment opportunities within the film and TV sector, which is often challenging to enter due to its freelance nature. The programme has been implemented across Hertfordshire, with various events and sessions held at local venues with the aim of equipping people with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the freelance landscape of the film and TV industry. This includes understanding self-employment, setting up as a sole trader, and enhancing networking and job searching skills.

The Discover! Creative Careers Roadshow in November 2024 was a standout event, attracting 1,300 students who engaged with industry experts and skills providers in areas such as screenwriting, production, set design, rigging, specialist electrics, hair and beauty, and more. The event series was created, led, and delivered by team member, Erica Hodges, Careers Coach with partners, such as Sky Studios, Hertfordshire Film Office and 4 local colleges.

Erica said: “It has been a real privilege to talk to students from diverse backgrounds, from across the county and studying subjects that they were unaware could lead to a career in the Screen Industries. It has been really interesting to see the unique way each college has taken the event and made it their own. It’s been wonderful to see so many people who work in the Screen industry support this event, many of whom had never been involved in a careers fair before. We had over 40 businesses, studios, training providers and freelancers supporting this event and some great feedback. People really enjoy talking to the next generation and hopefully giving them that one nugget of advice that can change everything.

I think these events have allowed us to talk about the breadth of opportunities that are available in the Film & TV industry, especially in Hertfordshire. I hope it has inspired some students to think about the industry in a different way and find out a bit more information. Allowing them to make informed choices about their future.”

Hertfordshire Futures continues to drive forward innovative solutions to bridge skills gaps and create employment opportunities in emerging sectors.