Course Overview
Start building your pathway into Film & Television with practical training and industry insight.
Our government-funded, industry-led Film & Television Runners Programme combines studio-based learning, production simulations, and structured skills development to support adults preparing for entry-level roles in the screen industries.
Practical. Structured. Industry-informed.
The Step8Up Film & Television Runners Programme is a pre-employment Level 2–3 preparation course delivered in partnership with Farnborough International Film Studios.
Designed for adults aged 19+ who are exploring careers in Film & TV, the programme is suitable for career changers, returners to work, unemployed learners, and those seeking structured preparation before applying for Runner roles.
Delivered over 10 working days (60% studio-based, 40% live online), the course introduces production workflow, on-set communication and etiquette, production paperwork, health & safety awareness, freelance finance basics, and introductory Movie Magic Scheduling & Budgeting.
Training is delivered by tutors with professional experience across film and television production environments, offering insight into current industry practice.
Funded (free) for eligible learners.
10 working days
Farnborough International Film Studios + live online sessions
Hands-on production exercises
Runner Production Pack portfolio development
Progression guidance and next-step planning
Learners take part in workshops, case studies, team-based simulations, and pitching exercises, alongside reflective progression planning.
Assessment includes practical observation, paperwork tasks, a short pitch presentation, and completion of a Runner Production Pack portfolio.
The programme concludes with a progression discussion to help learners identify potential next steps into employment, apprenticeships, or further training within the screen industries.
Interested in learning more about starting out in Film & Television?
Learning Structure
Industry Foundations
Understand production structure, departments, and workflow across Film & TV.
The Runner Role
Learn the responsibilities and expectations of entry-level production roles.
Real-life Professional Practice
Develop communication skills, set etiquette, and workplace behaviours.
Production Admin
Interpret call sheets, schedules, and essential studio documents.
Scheduling & Budget Basics
Introduction to Movie Magic and freelance finance fundamentals.
Portfolio & Progression
Create a Runner Pack and plan your next steps.
Modules
Prerequisite
Age
Be aged 19 or over on the course start date.
Residency
You must have the right to work in the UK and live within the Hampshire County Council area. Applicants must meet at least one Adult Tailored Learning (ATL) eligibility criterion.
Employment status
The programme is open to individuals who are unemployed, returning to work, at risk of redundancy, or seeking a career change. Eligibility for funding may depend on income or employment circumstances.
Income Requirement if employed
To be eligible for full funding, you must earn below £25,750 annual gross salary or meet an alternative ATL eligibility criterion (such as being on Universal Credit, without a full Level 2 qualification, at risk of redundancy, or holding refugee status).
Education & Experience
No prior Film or Television experience is required. This course is designed as an entry-level, pre-employment programme.
Commitment
Learners must be able to commit to the full 10-day programme (60% in-person at Farnborough International Film Studios and 40% live online).
Equipment
Access to a laptop with webcam and mic is recommended for online sessions and coursework. Learners should bring a notebook, pen, and photo ID to in-person sessions.
