Opportunities and Training

As we grow, so does our commitment to creating opportunities for new and emerging talent. We believe that the best way to learn this industry is by being in it – on set, working alongside experienced professionals, and given space to step up. Our goal is to open the door to people at the very start of their careers, whether that’s through production runner roles, shadowing heads of department, or, in some cases, taking on HOD responsibilities themselves.

Our recent short film Time to Go was the first time we trialled this approach, working closely with institutions like Edge Hill University and LMA in Liverpool. It proved the value of embedding early-career creatives into a professional working environment, and confirmed that this is something we want to build on.

This won’t be a fixed or formal scheme, it will grow naturally as we do, shaped by the people we meet and the projects we undertake. But the aim is simple: to make our productions a place where talent is nurtured, skills are passed on, and the next generation has a real shot at finding their place in the industry.

Testimonials

My first time as a trainee on set could not have been better than with Old Swan Films. I thoroughly enjoyed every second, the whole crew and cast were really supportive and welcoming. Along with catering to my needs both in getting a chance in roles I wanted to and ensuring I was well looked after. It has been an exhilarating production to see happen with my own eyes from start to finish. Overall, I cannot recommend them enough, as a new graduate I feel more confident and experienced for the industry ahead. If you get a chance to work with them, please do, they’re great in what they do and more importantly, you’ll have a laugh too!

Luke - Edge Hill University

I’m a third year student at Edge Hill University and worked as a production assistant on Old Swan Films Time To Go short film. It was great work experience as I had never been on a set with that many crew members before. I got introduced to crew roles that I had never known about including Prop Master and Intimacy Coordinator. I got to work with different departments, gaining knowledge of areas which I didn’t know much about. It was fun to explore these different areas and learn knew skills, which can help me in any role I wish to pursue in the future. Overall, the crew were kind and supportive, always making sure I was happy with my role. Thank you Old Swan Films.

Erin - Edge Hill University

Our first assistant director showing a trainee some behind-the-scenes images on our short film time

The cast and crew being briefed in the morning before we film our short film time to go