Additional support for those working in the Welsh Creative Media Industries has arrived in the form of a cutting-edge training programme, formed by Skillset Cymru, Skillset Screen Academy Wales and the newly created Skillset Media Academy Wales.

The Skillset Academi+ programme will provide targeted training and careers advice for Welsh production companies, freelancers and new entrants. The concept for the programme draws on hard evidence produced by Skillset Cymru on the impact of both the recession and rate of change in digital technology on the Creative Media sector in Wales.

The research has highlighted the need for targeted support for the types of skills needed to boost employability. The 18-month programme will enable companies and individuals at all stages of their careers to improve their existing technical and business skills or to re-skill for the digital age.

Skillset Academi+ project coordinator, Sue Jeffries, is a well-known Welsh freelance Producer, Director and Industry Trainer. Drawing on her own industry experience to drive the programme, she said: “The content of our courses has been shaped by feedback from industry practitioners on priority skills gaps and training needs. Skillset Academi+ will draw in training from industry professionals, the academic partners and other training providers, which will provide a unique opportunity for those working within the industry in Wales.”

Screen Academy Wales project manager, Hannah Raybould said: “Skillset Academi+ is an exciting new venture for this partnership. It aims to address the skills and training needs of the creative media industries in Wales at a time of immense technological change and economic instability.

“Access to quick and efficient training and career advice and guidance that is led by industry will enable new entrants and freelancers to develop new skills for sustainable employment and help companies develop new business models and revenue streams.”