Talent Schemes
The Network and Fast Track are the Festival’s two talent schemes which aim to help individuals from a diverse range of backgrounds gain knowledge and experience of the industry, supporting them in the early stages of their career and giving them access to valuable workshops and masterclasses.
The Network, now in its 20th year, aims to help those hoping to get into the television industry to learn about the wide variety of careers available, and to gain a unique insight into how the industry works. It does this through a five day programme of masterclasses, workshops and social events in August.
150 delegates, aged 18 and over, are chosen to meet, work with and learn from leading industry practitioners ranging from scriptwriters to producers, presenters to publicists, and programme schedulers to commissioning editors. This enables delegates to go away with a deeper understanding of the industry, new skills and a better insight into pursuing their chosen career. Many gain work experience as a result of attending the event and we have a strong alumni who have forged a successful career within the industry after taking part in The Network.
Delegates who have attended The Network are also given the opportunity to apply for a six month paid work placement at some of the most prestigious television companies in the UK through The Network at Work scheme.
The Network at Work builds on the success of The Network by giving participants the chance to apply for a paid work placement. The scheme also includes training and mentoring to support trainees during their placement. Positions are available at leading production companies and broadcasters for six months and many trainees stay with their company or go on to other employment on completion of their placement.
Fast Track, now in its 17th year is the Festival’s talent scheme for those who have worked in the industry for 2–4 years and are looking to progress their careers. Forty delegates who have been identified as rising stars through a nomination and application process are given access to influential and senior members of the industry over two days of unique masterclasses in Edinburgh. They are also given a free pass to the Festival. Fast Track delegates are also offered heavily subsidised training courses after Edinburgh, in areas including directing, pitching, editing and career development - enabling them to broaden their skills or explore different areas of the industry.
The Network and Fast Track are entirely free to successful applicants and include accommodation in Edinburgh. The schemes are produced and funded by the Edinburgh International Television Festival, with additional sponsorship (in-kind and financial) and public funding.