for ‘Create Traction’ Training Initiative
We are beyond excited to share some incredible news, Create Studios has been awarded £164,047 from the inaugural BFI Places Fund, awarding National Lottery funding to launch ‘Create Traction’, an initiative designed to support and develop the next generation of creative professionals in Swindon and beyond!
What is Create Traction?
The UK’s creative industries are thriving, yet skilled professionals from under-represented backgrounds still face barriers when entering the field. Create Traction is our response to this challenge, ensuring that Swindon, Wiltshire and Gloucester support and retain local talent and provide a skilled workforce for South West studios and the broader industry.
This initiative will:
-Form partnerships with education institutions to bridge gaps in industry relevant training
-Tackle local skills shortages across key film and TV production roles
-Offer practical, hands-on training and on-set experience for 48 emerging production participants
-Build a strategy to grow film production across Swindon, Wiltshire and Gloucester
A Game-Changer for Local Talent
With the BFI Places Fund’s support, Create Studios is proud to be one of only three organisations chosen for this funding, a major milestone for film and media development in Wiltshire and Gloucestershire. Thanks to this incredible opportunity, we will be welcoming 48 aspiring creatives to level up their skills in high-demand film roles, including:
-Digital Imaging Technician (DIT)
-Camera Assistant
-Production Coordinator
-Spark (Lighting Technician)
Each of these four key roles will be covered in a two-day intensive training session, plus a one day live on-set experience, giving participants real-world, hands-on experience ahead of a 1 week on set paid placement that will help kickstart their careers in the industry.
The creative industries thrive on diverse perspectives and fresh talent yet access to professional training and real-world experience can be a significant barrier. Create Traction will directly address this gap, equipping local creatives with the skills, knowledge, mentoring and networks they need to succeed.
Why This Matters
Create’s CEO, Shahina Johnson MBE reflected, “This isn’t just about training, it’s about building a sustainable, inclusive industry pipeline that nurtures and retains talent right here in Swindon. Our mission has always been to uplift, empower, and invest in the next generation of digital creatives, and this initiative takes that commitment to the next level.”
We are incredibly grateful to the BFI Places Fund for believing in our vision and investing in our creative community. Their support allows us to bring the groundbreaking Create Traction programme to life and expand career pathways for emerging talent in film and TV.
A Huge Thank You to BFI Places Fund
Stay tuned for updates on how to apply, training schedules, and more ways to get involved!