Prime Video Production Academy
OVERVIEW
Are you ready to take on your first big Industry role?
If you are committed to working in the film and television industry, have brilliant organisation skills and want to work in production management, then this is the opportunity for you. Get paid as you learn!
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The Prime Video Production Academy Apprenticeship delivered by the National Film and Television School has places for eight people based in Beaconsfield (London) or the North on the Level 4 Junior Production Coordinator Apprenticeship.
The 8 Apprenticeship participants will:
- Be given a 15-month contract of employment with the NFTS to complete the apprenticeship
- Gain hands on skills, knowledge and experience from experts in the industry
- Work on some of the biggest unscripted TV productions currently being made in the UK for Prime Video or by trusted partners
- Learn key Production Management skills and apply this in the workplace
- Access training and support from the NFTS, which is widely regarded to be one of the top film schools in the world
- Be awarded a Level 4 Junior Production Coordinator apprenticeship (comparable to a Higher National Certificate (HNC)) on successful completion of the programme
We especially encourage applications from individuals who have been historically underrepresented, including people from racially diverse backgrounds, disabled individuals and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds.
We are committed to providing support and accommodations for individuals with accessibility or adjustment needs at every stage of the application process.
About the scheme: In 2022 Prime Video announced Prime Video Pathway (PVP), a first-of-its-kind, multifaceted £10million training initiative designed to open up access to jobs in the TV and film industry across the UK. The Prime Video Academy is one of the key initiatives of PVP and is fully funded by Prime Video. Prime Video has a flagship collaboration with the UK’s leading TV and film school, the National Film & Television School and works closely with the NFTS to help support the apprentices with placements, training and connections.
Those selected for the apprenticeship will be employed by the NFTS on a 15-month fixed-term contract earning £28,000 per year.
Training
At the beginning of this programme, participants will be given block training delivered by the NFTS in Beaconsfield, and will be exposed to a range of departments in order to build their wider understanding of production. They will focus on Production Management, and will be introduced to all the key skills required such as Budgeting, Scheduling, Logistics, Legal, Copyright, Health and Safety and Production Paperwork. The Curriculum is designed around the Level 4 Junior Production Coordinator Standard.
What is a Junior Production Coordinator?
A Junior Production coordinator works within the production management team, reporting into the Production Manager. The purpose of the team is to ensure that a production runs smoothly from pre production to delivery. They handle a wide range of administrative and logistical tasks, including:
- Booking travel and accommodation
- Booking crews and equipment
- Organising work permits and visas
- Preparing detailed call sheets
- Securing locations
- Ensuring all paperwork is accurate and accessible
- Supporting financial tracking
- Creating risk assessments
- Sourcing and clearing archive material and music
- Overseeing final delivery to broadcasters
These are the key skills of a successful junior production coordinator:
- Organisation - efficiently planning, scheduling, booking, preparing documents, and solving issues before they escalate
- Communication - ensuring all team members have the information they need
- Financial management - tracking costs and budgets
- Technical knowledge - allows them to adapt quickly to new systems, software, and filming equipment
- Legal awareness - ensures compliance with health and safety rules, data protection laws, and copyright and clearance requirements
NFTS Masterclasses
Apprentices also have access to the NFTS-wide Masterclasses, which this year have included:
- Five-time Oscar Winning Filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola
- BAFTA Award Winning Documentary Filmmaker and Broadcaster Louis Theroux
- Physicist and Presenter Professor Brian Cox
Applying from the North?
We are offering bursaries for candidates from Leeds, Manchester and surrounding areas, to support with accommodation costs to attend the initial training in Beaconsfield which is approximately 8-10 weeks. You must be able to be based in Beaconsfield for the whole term and follow up block release training.
During the apprenticeship you will either be working on a UK-produced Amazon Original Series, with trusted Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios supply partners or you will be participating in NFTS training (either in person at the NFTS in Beaconsfield or online).
In 2025, apprentices were placed with some incredible production companies including: CPL Productions, Forest, ITN, ITV, Mindhouse, Orchard and True North.
While on placements, apprentices will have regular touch points with the NFTS with masterclasses, 121s, progress reviews and assignments.
End Point Assessment
The apprenticeship training culminates with the undertaking of an End Point Assessment (EPA). This is to measure the Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours (KSBs) that you have developed during the programme and to ensure competence within the role. For this L4 apprenticeship you will be assessed at the end of your training by the following methods:
- Presentation and questions
The apprentice delivers a presentation to an independent assessor on a set subject. The independent assessor will ask questions after the presentation. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method (30 minute presentation & 30 minutes of questioning) - Professional discussion underpinned by portfolio of evidence
This allows the assessor to test the apprentice’s knowledge, fill in gaps and talk through the breadth of understanding (90 minutes)
The NFTS will provide advice and guidance during the apprenticeship in preparation for the EPA and will provide ongoing support throughout EPA.
After the programme
Upon completion of the programme, the NFTS and Prime Video will work with the individual participants to plan and support their next steps, hopefully into full-time work within the screen industries. Although no further work or placements are guaranteed at this stage.
We welcome candidates who:
- Are committed to and passionate about a career in unscripted film and television. Don’t just tell us you’re passionate about programme-making – you’ll need to prove it. What have you done to make you stand out from the crowd?
- Can demonstrate transferable skills and interest in organisation and logistics. They are excited to learn about the logistical and administrative aspects of making television, ensuring the production stays on schedule and within budget
- Have a brilliant ‘can-do’ attitude
- Work effectively on their own and collaboratively in group settings to achieve goals
- Have drive and determination to complete the required tasks of the role
- Are able to highlight how they maintain their knowledge and understanding of latest trends, high rating shows and consumer engagement (this may be via social media, campaigns etc)
- Consume and watch hours and hours of TV, film and content across the broadest range of genres.
You are eligible if:
- You have less than one year’s paid experience working on a professional television or film production in any role or department in the last 5 years
- AND You have no more than 6 months paid experience in a production management role in the last 5 years
We particularly welcome applications from non-graduates - this apprenticeship is primarily directed at those who haven’t been to university and studied film and television.
This apprenticeship is not for you if you already have experience in production management or if you’re interested in working in any other department.
Applicants are required to hold a GCSE in English and Maths at Grade 4 / C or above.
Please note that we are unable to sponsor candidates for these roles, so we are only able to accept applications from candidates who are able to demonstrate their right to live and work in the UK for the full duration of the apprenticeship. This evidence must be provided ahead of attending the selection workshop. If you do not have the right to work in the UK, we will not be able to progress your application. Please see the FAQs below for further information on apprenticeship eligibility.
At the NFTS, people are at the heart of what we do. We’re an inclusive employer and are committed to equality of opportunity, and building a culturally diverse workforce. We are committed to being an anti-racist organisation and to increasing our representation of staff from ethnically diverse backgrounds. We strongly encourage applications from all backgrounds.
NFTS BEACONSFIELD
*bursaries offered for apprentices from the North to attend training in Beaconsfield.
There are no fees to pay for this scheme.
As an apprentice at the NFTS, you'll be paid a salary of £28,000.
While working as an apprentice, you'll receive training and be paid for your regular working hours (typically 40 hrs per week).
You'll also be entitled to 20 days paid holiday each year, plus bank holidays.
You will need to submit one combined PDF including:
- Your CV – this should be no more than two sides. Please include your latest education qualifications.
- A covering letter detailing why you are applying, what you hope to achieve as part of the apprenticeship and why you are convinced that you want to work in production management. We recommend that this should be between 300 and 500 words. Please include where you are based and if you are based in the North and applying for the bursary.
- Please also tell us in no more than 500 words what you’re currently watching and enjoying – and why.
- A completed written reference from someone who knows your work and your commitment to working in film and television (it may be a tutor, teacher, current boss, voluntary organisation etc who can evidence your passion for TV).
- Please also let us know if you need us to make any reasonable adjustments while you are applying or taking up the apprenticeship, so we can make this process and apprenticeship as inclusive as possible.
These documents should be saved as one PDF named ‘Your Full Name – Prime Video Production Academy Apprenticeship Application’ and sent to primeacademy@nfts.co.uk.
Please also complete this google form, which includes an equal opportunity form.
The application is available in alternative formats for accessibility. Please email to request an alternative application format.primeacademy@nfts.co.uk
Attention to detail is a key skill for a career in production management, so it is important that all application instructions are followed carefully. If the instructions are not fully followed, we will not be able to progress your application.
However, we are committed to supporting applications with additional needs - if you require any adjustments or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Applications will close at midnight on Wednesday 17th September.
Applications received after midnight on this date will not be considered. Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we strongly encourage early submission to ensure that your application is considered.
ONLINE OPEN DAYS
If you are interested in applying and want to find out more, please attend one of our upcoming Online Open Days. You’ll meet some of the current apprentices and there will be an opportunity to ask any questions that you might have.
- Thursday 21st August, 6:00pm - 7:00pm | Book your place on Eventbrite
- Wednesday 27th August, 1:00pm - 2:00pm | Book your place on Eventbrite
Promo & Case Studies
Check out this behind the scenes look at last year’s Prime Video Apprenticeship
Seb: Production Coordinator Apprentice
Seb talks about his rewarding and educational placement working as Production Coordinator at Roast Beef Productions, as well as his experience on the apprenticeship.
Evanna and Zoe: Production Coordinator Apprentices
Evanna and Zoe have been working with the production management teams at Louis Theroux’s incredible production company Mindhouse.
Eugenia: Production Assistant trainee
Eugenia had a brilliant placement working with Voltage TV as a Production Assistant as part of the Prime Video Craft Academy.
Selection Process
Stage 1
The National Film and Television School will read all eligible applications and decide on a shortlist.
We will be looking for applicants who show a level of commitment, passion and skills from past experiences. Please give details of interests or other activities you have done that would be an asset in the Film and TV industry. Transferable skills are important, as is any extra curricular work – e.g., work with charities, on social media and independent content producing.
Unsuccessful candidates will be notified via email. However, due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are not able to provide individual feedback at this point.
Before being approved for attendance at the selection workshop, applicants will be asked to provide evidence of their right to work in the UK for the full duration of the apprenticeship, and of their Maths and English qualifications.
Stage 2
Up to 20 applicants will be shortlisted to attend a selection workshop which will take place in person on the 6th and 7th November 2025 hosted at The National Film and Television School in Beaconsfield. Please don’t apply for the apprenticeship if you are not available on these dates. You will be notified by 17th October if you have progressed to this stage. Bursaries are available to help those in need of financial support to meet the out-of-pocket travel and accommodation expenses of attending the workshop.
The selection workshop will involve learning about the Film and TV industry, participating in practical workshops and an interview.
After the selection workshop, the NFTS will write to all candidates to advise them of the outcome by the end of November. Unsuccessful candidates who attend the selection workshop will receive individual feedback.
Apprenticeship contracts will commence on 7th January 2026, with in-person training beginning at Beaconsfield on 12th January 2026. All contracts will run through to 31st March 2027.
- Frequently Asked Questions
Please make every attempt to attend one of our briefing sessions – our online open days are listed on our events page – as this will probably answer most of your questions, help you understand the process and give you a better chance of being successful.
Q: When is the closing date for applications?
A: 17th September 2025.Q: What happens if I apply after the deadline has closed?
A: Your application will not be considered. This opportunity is open for applications for six weeks and no late applications will be considered.Q: When will I hear back about my application?
A: All applicants will be contacted to let them know whether or not they have progressed to the second round by the 17th of October.Q: When will the interviews take place?
A: Interviews will take place as part of the two-day selection workshop on 6th–7th November.Q: Where will the selection workshop and interviews take place?
A: They will be at the National Film and Television School in Beaconsfield.Q: What happens if I am successful in my application, but I don’t live near where the productions are taking place or the training course?
A: You need to be located – or relocate – to be near to the NFTS in Beaconsfield to benefit fully from the apprenticeship on offer. You may need to commute or even move away from home temporarily to work on production. We are offering bursaries for candidates from Leeds, Manchester and surrounding areas, to support with accommodation costs to attend the initial training in Beaconsfield.Q: If I relocate will the programme support with relocation fees or housing?
A: We are unable to support with relocation fees or housing, so you will need to be able to be based a commutable distance from Beaconsfield (London). The exception is for candidates from Leeds/Manchester and surrounding areas who apply for a bursary to enable them to train at the NFTS in Beaconsfield, before returning to their home town for placements. If you would like to apply for this bursary, please include this in your cover letter.Production takes place all over the UK, so apprentices should be prepared to commute or temporarily relocate at points during their apprenticeship. We will do our best to minimise the need for travel and will aim to find you placements near home in the first instance. Apprentices will often be expected to travel to work at offices and studios within the M25 – you must be able to do this from your home address for early morning starts. If temporary relocation is necessary to work on a production, we will consider requests for bursaries to support apprentices as needed.
Q: Which productions will I get to work on?
A: Due to the nature of production, it isn’t possible to confirm which productions apprentices will work on in advance or where they will be based. Production takes place all over the UK so apprentices should be prepared to commute or temporarily relocate at points during their apprenticeship. We will do our best to minimise the need for travel and will aim to find you placements near home in the first instance. If temporary relocation is necessary, we will consider requests for bursaries to support apprentices as needed.Q: I’ve seen that the apprenticeship is for people who want to work in unscripted television. What does that mean?
A: Unscripted television includes reality TV, documentaries, game shows and factual entertainment. This includes shows such as Clarkson’s Farm, 007: Road to a Million, and All or Nothing, where the content is based on real people, events, or spontaneous interactions rather than fictional stories. This is in contrast to scripted television, which would cover dramas such as The Rig, Citadel, and The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.Q: What hours will I do?
A: During training your weekly hours will be based on a standard 35-hour week. However, during production placements your standard hours will be 40 hours per week.Q: If I’m busy or working on the dates of the selection workshop, can I still take part in this programme?
A: No. Attendance on both days is a compulsory part of the process.Q: I’m under 18, but I really want to start working, can I apply?
A: Due to health and safety, all applicants must be 18 or over on or before 1st January 2026.Q: Is this aimed at school/college/uni leavers only?
A: While we have a minimum age of 18, there is no maximum age. We would welcome applications from those with transferrable skills who might be looking to move into the TV and Film industry.Q: How long will the apprenticeship last?
A: The apprenticeship lasts for 15 months. You will be on a full-time contract for the duration of the apprenticeship, so you will need to be available to work and study for the whole period and you are not expected to take on outside work.Q: What's the pay?
A: You will be paid a salary of £28,000 before tax.Q: If I am successful, when will I start?
A: The start date will be 7th January 2026Q: Will I be eligible for holiday leave?
A: As an employee of the National Film and Television School, you will receive 20 days of paid leave per year plus bank holidays. When you can take it will need to be negotiated and agreed in advance.Q: Do I need to have a driving licence?
A: No, you do not need a driving licence to apply for this scheme.Q: I know I want to be a Director/Screenwriter, is this the right thing for me? I want to work in editorial roles – e.g., Researcher, is this the right course for me?
A: No, this is only for people who want to work in Production Management.Q: I’m already working in my chosen specialism, is this the right thing for me?
A: This is a foundation training scheme. If you’re already working in Production Management, this is not the right scheme for you.Q: The website says that you welcome applications from historically excluded groups. What does that mean?
A: The under-represented groups we look at primarily relate to the protected characteristics as defined in the UK Equality Act 2010. You should use the following list as a guide for what areas of historically excluded groups we are seeking to address:- Age
- Disability
- Gender reassignment
- Pregnancy and maternity
- Race
- Religion or belief
- Sex
- Sexual orientation
In addition to the protected characteristics recognised by the Act, the NFTS also seeks to address historically excluded groups in the following areas:
- Regional participation
- Socio-economic inclusion
- Caring responsibilities
Q: What adjustment and accessibility support is available?
A: We aim to support the needs of our deaf, disabled and neurodivergent applicants and will work with the individual(s) on a case-by-case basis to determine their needs. In the past we have made provisions which have included: additional support with the application process and providing external support during the apprenticeship.Q: What work is involved in “passing/qualifying” for an apprenticeship?
A: During the apprenticeship, you will have to complete a range of assignments to demonstrate that you have developed the Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours outlined in the Standard. During the last three months of the apprenticeship, you will undertake a production project as part of your End Point Assessment. You will need to document your project and write a report at the end. The training will prepare you for this, and you will receive ongoing mentoring support throughout the apprenticeship. Once the project is concluded, you will write a report and be assessed in a presentation and discussion.Q: What happens at the end of apprenticeship?
A: Upon completion of the programme, the NFTS and Prime Video will work with the individual participants to plan and support their next steps. And, of course, you will have built valuable connections and gained skills and experience that are very much in demand in the industry. We can’t guarantee you will be offered further work.Q: Will I be supported throughout the programme?
A: Yes, you will be fully supported throughout the programme. The Prime Video Production Academy Manager, at the NFTS, will be available to offer guidance, support and advice to the apprentices. You will also receive support from our expert tutors. Additionally, the NFTS will coordinate each apprentice’s placement on TV productions to ensure a valuable and inclusive learning experience.Q: Can I apply for an apprenticeship as an international student?
A: Yes, although apprentices must live and be eligible to work in the UK. Applicants born overseas but who live in the UK must meet additional eligibility criteria which can be found on the Department for Education website.Q: Am I eligible for an apprenticeship?
A: Due to government apprenticeship funding rules, you will not be eligible for an apprenticeship if:- You are resident in the United Kingdom on a student visa (although there are exceptions to this)
- Are in the United Kingdom on holiday, with or without a visa
- Have overstayed your immigration or visitor visa
- Are a family member of a person granted a student visa, have been given immigration permission to stay in the UK and have not been ordinarily resident in the UK for the previous three years on the first day of learning
- Are ordinarily resident in the Channel Islands or Isle of Man, unless you are also ordinarily resident within England
- Have a biometric residence permit or residence permit imposing a study prohibition or restriction on the individual.
If you unsure about the criteria listed below, please contact us on primeacademy@nfts.co.uk
Q: How many days will I get to study?
A: At least 20% of your time on the apprenticeship will be spent studying towards your End Point Assessment. This could be in the form of block release, virtual or face to face.Q: Are you running the Prime Video Craft Academy Traineeship this year?
A: The NFTS/Prime Video Craft Academy has run for three years as part of the Prime Video Pathway (PVP), delivering best-in-class training and placements for 71 trainees and apprentices. Building on participant feedback and the industry needs, moving forward we will be focusing on our pioneering flexi-apprenticeship (Level 4 Junior Production Co-ordinator) only, which equips learners with the skills to coordinate shoots, manage logistics, and keep productions running smoothly from pre-production to post.If you have any further questions, please contact
primeacademy@nfts.co.uk