Access Industry and Production Futures have announced a new partnership, dedicated to bringing creative apprenticeships into a new era and boosting opportunities for young people to access creative careers, regardless of background.
Access Industry is a creative and digital apprenticeship provider, and Production Futures is an industry funded careers initiative, promoting all pathways into entertainment production jobs and training opportunities. Both organisations are headquartered in Manchester, but share more than a location. They also have a shared vision of addressing barriers that prevent young people from entering the production industry. Their new partnership aims to create real pathways for individuals to progress to career, as well as meaningful guidance and mentorship to equip new talent with the knowledge and skills to thrive in the professional world.
Both organisations have a national scope, allowing them to combine their substantial knowledge and networks to have a bigger impact. By utilising their reach, they are able to expand access to opportunities in this field, particularly for individuals who may not have otherwise had access due to financial, geographical, or social barriers.
The partnership will also directly benefit employers, widening the talent pipeline and maintaining the flow of trained professionals into industry.
Production Futures CEO, Hannah Eakins said “The Production Futures pledge is that by 2030, every business in the entertainment production industry will be able to offer a placement or apprenticeship. This goal is achievable, and we're here to help make it happen. If a business is already providing opportunities, we’ll promote and celebrate their commitment. If they’re not there yet, we will work together to help them build the pathway. By collaborating, we can bridge the skills gap, empower fresh talent, and future-proof our industry.
The production industry is built on innovation and fresh talent. Partnering with Access Industry allows us to directly support and inspire young creatives, ensuring they have the tools and guidance needed to turn their passion into a career. This collaboration is a crucial step.”
A key focus of the partnership will be network creation, so professionals can expand their businesses and learners can create the contacts they need to get a foot in the door of industry. Increased networks within the production industry promote better connectivity and collaboration, boosting opportunity and productivity.
“At Access Industry, we’re committed to breaking down barriers for young people looking to enter the production industry. Our partnership with Production Futures is a vital step in providing the skills, mentorship, and hands-on experience needed to help the next generation thrive. Beyond training, we’re also focused on creating opportunities to build strong networks—connecting young talent with employers and peers who can support their journey into the industry. Together, we’re shaping a more accessible and inclusive future for production.” - Katie Bambridge, Head of Sales (South), Access Industry.
As highlighted by Production Futures, the industry thrives on innovation. Giving young people the tools and guidance they need ensures that their passion and creativity can be transformed into sustainable careers. The two organisations hope that industry stakeholders and young people alike will throw their support behind this new venture, collaborating to create a stronger, more resilient production industry that provides meaningful entry routes that benefit all.
Production Futures and Access Industry will formally launch their partnership at the upcoming On Tour event at AO Arena, Manchester on 28th April. The free event is open to young people aged 16 to 25 and employers, and tickets can be booked on the Production Futures website. And for more on Access Industry’s apprenticeship offer, visit their website.
Editor’s Notes:
About Access Industry
Access Industry, a recent rebrand of renowned apprenticeships provider National College Creative Industries, is the latest brand within Access Further Education Group (AFEG), alongside Access Creative College and Access Sport. AFEG has decades of collective experience in educating the next generation of skilled professionals, and is one of the biggest and most successful providers in the education sector.
Access Further Education Group has a strong presence across the UK with centres in major cities including Manchester, London, Birmingham, and Bristol. Access Industry apprenticeships cover fields including events, marketing, software development, and beyond.
With a proven track record, Access Industry has delivered successful apprenticeship programs to renowned companies such as Disney, the National Trust, and the Royal Opera House, among others. Committed to driving connections that fuel organisational growth and innovation, Access Industry stands at the forefront of industry-driven apprenticeship training.
About Production Futures
Production Futures are an industry funded, careers initiative that works with industry leading employers, suppliers, technology brands, production companies, education institutes, apprenticeship providers and associations. They aim to nurture the next generation of talent and promote a diverse workforce, ensuring the industry is set up for future success.
They host 3 free careers expos across the UK per year, as well as an annual Breakthrough Talent Awards that celebrates production newcomers. They have an online digital reach of 40k across social media and databases. They also have a new 24/7 app launching in Spring 2025 for people to access courses, jobs and training from partners.
In the last 3 years of the tour, they have met over 12,000 people at in-person events.
Websites
Follow us