We know that life events can derail directing careers — especially those in a leadership roles, where the challenges are even more difficult. That’s why we’re starting Back on Track.
Directors UK has been awarded funding from ScreenSkills for a brand-new mentoring programme aimed at directors facing specific challenges in progressing their careers, or looking to return to their careers after a break. The aim of Back on Track is to develop mentees’ confidence, broaden networks and enable mentees to attend pitches and interviews on a level playing field.
As part of this programme, mentors will also gain insights into new skills, diversify their own contacts and importantly gain confidence through the strong leadership they can offer. As a mentor, you share your skills, knowledge and insights with the mentee to help them develop and achieve their goals.
We are prioritising women, carers, BAME directors and directors with disabilities* and have included costs for travel and accommodation as well as childcare so that we can best support directors travelling from outside London and the M25.
We are looking for 10 Mentors to participate with 10 Mentees in this six-month programme in 2020, starting in early March.
The deadline for applications is 5pm, Friday 14 February. To apply, please complete the application form and equality and diversity monitoring form below.
Complete the application form.
Complete the equality and diversity monitoring form.
You will need to use a Google account to complete these forms. If you don’t have a Google account, you can find out how to create one here.
Directors will be trained by leading mentoring consultants Under The Moon (consultants on Channel 4 Commissioning Mentor network) and gain a unique opportunity to learn within a rewarding setting. The programme will include joint networking and social events with participants of other mentoring programmes.
Under The Moon will run bespoke induction sessions as well as provide support and monitoring of mentoring pairs to ensure regular meetings. There will be a halfway point review followed by a masterclass at the end where participants’ own experience will be shared for everyone’s benefit.
This programme is supported by ScreenSkills using National Lottery funds awarded by the BFI as part of the Future Film Skills programme. ScreenSkills is the industry-led skills body for the UK’s screen industries.
This is permitted as Positive Action within the 2010 Equalities Act and acknowledges the under-representation of BAME and female directors currently working in the TV industry.
