Why the Barnet Screen Skills Plan Matters
The UK’s film, television, gaming and digital media sectors are expanding at a pace that outstrips traditional employment growth. In a borough that already hosts world‑class studios such as MDX Studios and Troubadour Brent Cross, the demand for skilled professionals is rising faster than the supply of locally trained talent. The Barnet Screen Skills Plan, developed in partnership with Middlesex University, aims to close that gap by creating clear pathways from education to industry‑ready roles.
For residents, students and local businesses, the plan offers a tangible route to careers that were once considered distant or inaccessible. By aligning curriculum, mentorship and practical experience, the initiative turns Barnet into a hub where creative ideas can be nurtured, tested and brought to market.
Key Pillars of the Plan
The strategy is built around four interlocking pillars that together form a comprehensive ecosystem for screen‑industry success.
1. Education – Strengthening Pathways
- Bridging the gap between secondary schools and higher education through targeted outreach and curriculum alignment.
- Expanding industry‑ready training modules that cover the latest software, production workflows and emerging technologies.
- Providing scholarships and bursaries to ensure that financial barriers do not limit access.
2. Entrepreneurship – Supporting Freelancers and Start‑ups
- Offering incubator spaces and business development support for creative freelancers and small studios.
- Facilitating access to funding, grants and investor networks that are specific to the screen sector.
- Hosting workshops on intellectual property, contracts and brand building.
3. Environment – Building Physical and Digital Infrastructure
- Upgrading studio facilities, sound stages and post‑production suites to meet industry standards.
- Investing in high‑speed broadband and cloud‑based collaboration tools to support remote production.
- Creating a Screen Innovation Hub that brings together technology providers, creative talent and investors.
4. Equal Access – Expanding Opportunities for All
- Implementing inclusive recruitment practices that target under‑represented groups.
- Providing mentorship programmes that pair experienced professionals with newcomers from diverse backgrounds.
- Ensuring that training and employment opportunities are available to residents, students and graduates alike.
How Middlesex University Supports the Initiative
Middlesex University plays a pivotal role as the lead author of the plan and as a key educational partner. Dr Helen Bendon, Head of the School of Film, has steered the development of curriculum that aligns with industry needs. The university’s MDX Studios, already a flagship facility, has been upgraded to a state‑of‑the‑art production hub that offers students hands‑on experience with professional equipment.
Key contributions include:
- Skills Bootcamps that provide intensive, short‑term training in areas such as visual effects, sound design and scriptwriting.
- Placement programmes that place students in real‑world production environments, giving them exposure to industry workflows.
- Inclusive recruitment drives that actively seek talent from all backgrounds, ensuring a diverse pipeline of future screen professionals.
Opportunities for Students and Local Talent
Whether you are a high‑school student considering a career in media, a university student looking to specialise, or a local entrepreneur wanting to launch a creative venture, the Screen Skills Plan offers a range of entry points:
- Academic Pathways: Enrol in Middlesex University’s creative degrees, such as Film Production, Digital Media, or Game Design, and benefit from industry‑aligned coursework.
- Work‑Experience: Apply for internships and work‑placement schemes that give you real‑time exposure to production pipelines.
- Entrepreneurial Support: Join the Screen Innovation Hub to access mentorship, funding advice and networking events.
- Community Projects: Participate in local film festivals, community theatre productions or digital media workshops that showcase your work and build a portfolio.
These opportunities are designed to be accessible, flexible and directly linked to the skills that employers are demanding.
Getting Involved: Steps You Can Take
1. Explore Educational Options: Visit the creative arts courses page on the Middlesex University website to see which programmes align with your interests.
2. Attend a Skills Bootcamp: Sign up for a free introductory bootcamp that covers the basics of screen production. These sessions are open to all residents and provide a taste of what a full course would entail.
3. Connect with Mentors: Reach out to the university’s mentorship programme to find a professional who can guide you through the early stages of your career.
4. Apply for Grants: If you’re an entrepreneur, check the business partnership page for information on grants and funding opportunities tailored to creative start‑ups.
5. Share Your Work: Use local platforms such as the Barnet community theatre or the MDX Studios showcase to display your projects and gain feedback from peers and industry experts.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The Barnet Screen Skills Plan is more than a policy document; it is a living framework that connects education, industry and community. By leveraging the resources offered by Middlesex University and the broader network of partners, residents and students can transform ambition into tangible careers.
Take the first step today: Explore our screen industry courses and discover how you can turn your creative passion into a professional pathway.
Have questions or want to discuss how the plan can benefit your specific goals? Contact us for a personalised consultation.
Share your experiences and success stories in the comments below – your journey could inspire the next wave of local talent.
