AN initiative aimed at promoting diversity in the film and TV industry is recruiting again.

Screen Yorkshire has opened applications for its third Beyond Brontes training programme.

Young people aged 18 to 24 can apply for a place on the scheme, which is designed to widen access to jobs within the industry.

There is a particular focus on attracting young people from black, Asian or minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds, but organisers are also keen to hear from individuals who have disability status or identify as LGBTQ+.

Trainees from the first two years of the programme have gone on to work on high-profile TV productions including Gentleman Jack, The Syndicate, Anne Boleyn, Coronation Street and Ackley Bridge.

The scheme has the backing of leading figures in film and TV regionally.

TV producer Adeel Amini, who was appointed to Screen Yorkshire’s board in February, says: “As someone who started in television on a scheme, I know just how important they can be for career development.

“Beyond Brontes is the gold standard and a true force in providing the screen industries with the diverse and authentic voices they need.”

Last year, only 22 per cent of applicants to the programme were from BAME backgrounds.

And earlier this year, a Creative Diversity Network report found that diversity across many senior production roles in television was still poor.

Screen Yorkshire’s head of skills, Glyn Middleton, says: “Beyond Brontes has been incredibly successful in its first two years.

“However, we would really like to see more applications from groups that remain under-represented in film and TV.

“There is a particular shortage of trained people from BAME backgrounds in the industry and this programme has been designed to support those individuals.”

Beyond Brontes prepares young people for a wide range of jobs within the industry, from roles at independent production companies – such as research, story-telling, development and editing – to on-set crew, working in departments like costume, set building, hair and make-up or lighting.

Participants receive a tailored package of training and support to help them prepare for a career suited to their personal interests and strengths.

Modules during the five-month course range from industry masterclasses to CV and interview workshops, plus there is one-to-one support – and internships and work experience placements are arranged where feasible.

Students from the district who took part last year included Henna Ravjibhai.

She said: “I feel so much closer to gaining a career in the film and TV industry thanks to the support of Beyond Brontes.

“The course was structured so that I could balance work whilst still getting the best industry training and networking experience possible. I have gained valuable contacts, industry mentors and new friends who are all on my doorstep.”

Screen Yorkshire says young people interested in applying should be able to demonstrate a passion for working in the film and TV industry, but they don’t need any work experience or particular qualifications.

The course is open to young people from across the Leeds City Region, which includes Keighley.

Participation is free and the course is structured as part-time to allow flexibility around young people’s other commitments.

The programme is delivered in conjunction with Bradford Council and with the support of the Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership.

Screen Yorkshire has also been supported by the British Film Institute’s National Cluster Growth Fund, using National Lottery funding to support the development of the screen sector in this region.

For further information about Beyond Brontes and to apply for a place, visit screenyorkshire.co.uk or email beyondbrontes@screenyorkshire.co.uk.

The deadline for applications is noon on Friday, May 7.