A Foot In The Door At The BBC
Occasionally on theSprout we post an article about upcoming jobs if they’re something a bit special or a wee bit different. Recently the BBC began its “Vision Intake Pool” for this year, hunting for new people to be Runners or Production Management Assistants. They're looking for new blood, so it's not a big deal if you don't have media experience or qualifications. The nearest place to Cardiff is Bristol, but hey its just a short hop on the train, right? Here’s some blurb…
The Vision Intake Pool is a clear route into BBC production and website teams. This scheme is for the entry level roles of Runner and Production Management Assistant (PMA). Once you have been accepted into the pool you may be offered contracts as and when there is a requirement for Runner or PMA support on a production team. There is no guarantee of work and contract lengths will vary depending on the need of the production. You can choose to work in Birmingham, Bristol, Manchester or London for Runner roles and Bristol or London for PMA roles.
However you can only apply for ONE role (Runner or PMA) in ONE location (Birmingham, Bristol, Manchester or London).
What is BBC Vision?
BBC Vision Productions is the in-house programme making and website area within the BBC. BBC Vision Productions covers Factual, Entertainment and Comedy, Children’s, Drama and Multi-platform output. It produces programmes such as Life, Waking the Dead, Strictly Come Dancing and Blue Peter.
What is a Runner?
A Runner provides general support to a production team. They assist all members of the team by running errands, such as taking tapes or equipment from one location to another. Duties range from buying props or equipment for filming, preparing studios or locations, and sometimes doing basic research and contributing to programme ideas. A runner could also be required to make drinks and buy food for the team on location or meet and greet people.
What is a Production Management Assistant?
A Production Management Assistant provides general administrative support to a production team. They assist with the planning and organising of the team during the production process. They may book travel and accommodation, do basic purchasing, process expenses, and book and arrange meetings. They may assist with booking the resources that are needed and completing production related paperwork.
In Bristol you could be working on shows such as Springwatch, Miracle Animal Babies, Antiques Roadshow, Bargain Hunt, or DIY SOS.
The application process involves some problem solving scenarios which are interesting in themselves, as well as the standard job-form filling.
The pay range is £15,500 - £16,500 for the Bristol positions.
The deadline for applications is January 31st.
Source: www.bbc.co.uk/jobs/vip
If you're looking for info on employment and training organisations in Cardiff, then have a look at this.
