Waterloo Road Production Development Trainee Scheme returns

The Waterloo Road Production Development Trainee Scheme is back following three successful previous editions of the scheme.

Wall to Wall Media and Rope Ladder Fiction in association with HOME and Screen Manchester are on the search for applications from anyone keen to join the next six month paid programme, which will commence in April.

The aim of the initiative is to provide on the job training in junior roles for the next generation of talent for the scripted broadcast drama sector. It achieves this through hands-on experience designed to build skills by directly working on this made in Manchester TV hit.

Recent graduate, assistant director trainee Oliver Mortimer, said: “My time at Waterloo Road has been an enlightening, exciting and dream fulfilling experience into not only the AD department but into the lifestyle of a TV freelancer.”

Props trainee Anne O’Neill added: “In the last five months I have gained a variety of skills and networks that will hopefully help further my career in the props department. It is such a great idea to help people gain direct experience of the TV Industry.”

Rope Ladder Fiction’s founder Cameron Roach said: “The previous cohort of trainees have all gone on to secure freelance work within the sector, and it’s brilliant to see their individual careers flourish. The BBC’s continued investment in Waterloo Road, here in Greater Manchester, is genuinely ensuring that a sustainable pipeline of emerging screen talent is secure.”

Dina Slater, people partner at Warner Brothers Discovery, added: “By providing ongoing training opportunities and mentoring through our structured programme, we’re supporting people from all walks of life to pursue their passion in this fast-moving and ever-changing industry. We know just how important this is in creating a more inclusive industry, bringing fresh perspectives and talent to the table. We want to provide an entry point for new and emerging talent with diverse experiences and backgrounds into the television landscape, knowing how this brings continued relevance, creativity and vibrancy to all we do.”

Elli Metcalfe, Screen Manchester’s crew and facilities manager said: “It has been wonderful to meet and then watch the progress of all our trainees who are thriving and already finding their way into the industry across a range of departments. Our aim is to supply the talent pipeline in the North and keep it flowing in a positive direction. Waterloo Road is helping us to achieve precisely that and we are so grateful to the team there for their unbridled access and support.”

Full details of the application process and the application form can be found on the Screen Manchester website.