USW and Media Cymru launch bespoke training schemes for creative sector

The University of South Wales (USW) has launched three innovative training schemes specifically for people working in creative industries in Wales, thanks to its partnership with Media Cymru.

Established last year, Media Cymru is a collaboration to accelerate growth in Cardiff Capital Region’s (CCR) media sector, making it a global hub for innovation. It brings together organisations from across Wales, including education, broadcasting, technology, media production and local leadership partners, to drive inclusive and sustainable economic development.

Working across the consortium, USW has developed three training schemes linking education with industry and infrastructure to build a sustainable talent base for the region’s screen sector.

Virtual Production Essentials: How to Create Commercial Pitches Using Virtual Production Workflows is an industry-facing, innovative 5-day training workshop, for those wanting to make virtual production part of the audio-visual narrative when pitching branded content or short-form ideas to commercial clients.

This first-of-its-kind free training opportunity is open to Wales-based commercial content creators and producers with more than three years’ experience and a demonstrable passion for emerging technology and innovative, short-form storytelling. The training will be delivered by virtual production experts from Final Pixel Academy.

The Global Formats Training Programme: Pump Up the Volume aims to equip Welsh media professionals with the tools they need to create commercial formats for the international TV market. The unique 1.5 days workshop encourages participants to think globally. In the company of experienced media professionals, this free training focuses on entertainment and non-scripted format ideas, for independents and professionals looking to expand their business and global reach.

How to be a Greenlancer is an engaging, straightforward guide on how freelancers can be more environmentally focused and finance-savvy on a personal level, growing their business, worth and network by differentiating themselves and attracting employers who also value sustainability. This free training will be delivered by Picture Zero.

Richard Hurford, USW Project Lead for Media Cymru Skills and Training, and Creative Industries Research and Innovation Lead, said: “We are delighted to announce our first training schemes developed as part of Media Cymru.

“Based on industry workforce needs identified by our research and in conversation with industry partners, these bespoke training courses will support the development of high value innovation skills and building capacity within the region, with initial courses focusing on Virtual Production and Global Format development. We are also looking forward to announcing more training soon, covering sustainability, inclusion and technology.”