Hit the Ground Running film and TV course success in South of Scotland

South of Scotland residents took part in an intensive, two-day training course for entry level roles in scripted film and television productions in Dumfries in February 2025.

The aptly named Hit the Ground Running training course then took place at The Stove Network with attendees from across the South of Scotland.

Supported by South of Scotland Enterprise as part of its work to support the Creative Economy in the South of Scotland.

It was delivered by trade union-based training provider, BECTU Vision, the training course follows on from free to attend Behind the Scenes in Film and Television information evenings which took place in Dumfries, Hawick and online in November 2024. 

Film and TV landscape

These sessions were designed to build interest by providing an overview of the film and television landscape in Scotland and insight into the range of roles involved in screen content production.

Focusing on working in the production, assistant director and locations departments on scripted film and television productions, the course covered what is involved in Runner roles and how to do them well. 

Industry practitioners delivered workshops on how to:

  • Read production paperwork and understanding industry lingo
  • A guide to freelance working
  • CV advice and input from a range of industry professionals, which equipped participants with the knowledge and tools and contacts to help with their next steps.
Insights and advice shared

Guest speakers who shared their insights and advice included:

  • Location Manager, Susan MacBride
  • Mark Geddes of South of Scotland Enterprise
  • Third Assistant Director, Mark Gordon
  • Production Manager, Ashley Black
  • Belle Doyle of South West Media Factory
  • Hit the Ground Running alumna, Sarah Mindel.

This training was supported by: