Talent: Opportunities talent schemes

SUMMER SCHOOL 2008

Ever thought that you could be cut out for a career in media? Here's your first step - a 12-week paid placement with Channel 4, starting on 30th June. We need people with the talent and ability to succeed in what can be a very demanding business. So your background and qualifications aren't as important as your potential. What we'll be looking for, most of all, is a real passion and determination to make it in the industry.

All about us

At Channel 4, we aim to make trouble, inspire change and do things first. So that'll give you some idea of the qualities we're looking for. Creative, buzzing with new ideas and prepared to take risks - you get the idea. When it comes to the nuts-and-bolts of actually making programmes though, we leave it to the talented people who do that kind of thing best - independent production companies and digital agencies. That's why we're always looking to build strong partnerships with external organisations across the UK.

What happens on the placement

Well, we can't explain everything that'll happen in 12 weeks right now, otherwise we'll be here all day. Let's just say that you'll get to know Channel 4 and one of its key departments, as well as getting stuck in to your own project. So if you're you the kind of person who's prepared to muck in with whatever needs doing, we want to hear from you.

Then what?

That's very much down to you. But armed with the knowledge, insights and skills you will have developed with us, you'll be in the perfect position to plan your future career.

The following placements are available:

New Media

Central London

New media's revolutionising our industry - and at Channel 4, we're right at the forefront of it all. Websites, mobiles, user-generated content - you name it, our team is leading exciting developments that are changing the way people see and interact with Channel 4.

Editorial placements (two roles): We're looking for people who've already developed good web skills. You'll have been involved in new media already - perhaps creating a blog, building a site or writing content.

Online design placement: With some experience of designing stuff for the web, you've got to grips with Photoshop, Flash and HTML. User-centred design is the big thing, so you should be able to tell us all about your ideas for that too.

Film4

Central London

Smart, distinctive contemporary feature films - that's what we're all about. Trainspotting and East Is East were both commissioned by our team, and more recent releases include The Last King of Scotland, This Is England, Brick Lane and Joe Strummer. To join our development team, you'll definitely need a passion for film, plus the ability to read and evaluate scripts. Strong communication and presentation skills are also important, plus a confident personality.

More4 - Editorial and Compliance

Central London

Channel 4's well known for being edgy. Whether it's Big Brother, True Stories or any other of our provocative shows, taking risks is what we do. But how far can we push things? At what point do we need to say 'Whoooa, time to back off a bit'? You'll be part of the team that makes those decisions - and that means watching loads of TV programmes. But not just watching them, analysing them too - staying alert for anything that might overstep the mark. So a keen eye for detail is important, plus the ability to handle a wide range of different tasks within this busy team.

Marketing - E4 Radio

Central London

E4 Radio is our brand new station - and we're determined to do things differently. From new music and comedy to entertainment, this is the place for people who are looking out for the next big thing. And we're always up for a bit of fun and mischief too. You'll be part of the department that will bring E4 Radio to life through on-air promotion, advertising and sponsorship. As well as a good knowledge of today's culture, you should bring a passion for music and an understanding of what New Media is all about.

4Creative

Central London

4Creative is the communications company set up by Channel 4. It produces all of the Channel's major advertising campaigns and has won lots of creative awards for its work on programmes like Jamie's School Dinners and Skins. This is an inspired and ambitious team of people who aim to find the most original ideas that'll create a buzz everywhere from TV to online to podcast. You'll need a passion for advertising, as well as real creative flair. Maybe you're into filmmaking, photography, writing or whatever - come and show us.

Nations and Regions

Glasgow

It's a fact that London's always been the centre of the British TV and media industries. That's meant that talented people from other parts of the country often don't get the chance to show what they can do. Our Nations and Regions team aims to put that right, seeking out and showcasing inspiring new talent outside the capital. In fact, many of our biggest shows including Shameless, How to Look Good Naked and Peter Kay's Phoenix Nights have been produced outside London. To join the team, you'll need to be really well organised with a passion for TV production.

Commissioning Management

Central London

Our Commissioning Management team is key to making sure that programmes get made - working closely with production companies, Commissioning Editors, off-screen talent and more. It's pretty fast-moving as you'd expect, and you'll be right in the thick of it. As well as providing support to keep the department running smoothly, you'll liase with a wide range of people and help us organise events. So strong communication and organisational skills are important, plus a real hunger to learn all about TV and how shows get produced.

What you get

• A full induction into Channel 4 and the way we do things
• A mentor who'll guide you every step of the way
• A guided tour of our complete operation
• The opportunity to work closely with a team on projects
• A monthly session with people from Channel 4 and independent production companies
• A week's experience with an independent production, design or advertising agency - training in both technical skills and the way to get a job in the media
• Plenty more...

How to apply

Applications for 2008 are now closed.
Please watch this space for 2009 entries.

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