NTA Crew Shadowing Scheme

About the National Talent Academy Crew Shadowing Scheme

This scheme is for experienced crew only who have been working in the screen sector for years and are on the verge of upgrading to a HOD role. If you want to check you eligibility, please email crew.shadowing@nationaltalentacademies.ie. 

Shadowing is a dynamic and immersive work-based learning experience that provides individuals with the invaluable opportunity to observe and learn from experienced professionals in a specific role. During a shadowing program, participants, known as "shadows", closely follow and observe the day-to-day activities of an experienced professional on a production.

This hands-on approach allows shadows to gain real-world insights into the screen industry, understand the nuances of various tasks, and witness effective problem-solving strategies in action. Beyond just observing, shadows often have the chance to ask questions, seek guidance, and actively engage in the workplace environment. Through this personalised exposure, shadowing becomes a catalyst for professional development, fostering a deeper understanding of roles, responsibilities, and the practical skills required for success.

Ultimately, shadowing serves as a bridge between theoretical knowledge and practical application, empowering individuals and inspiring a new generation of skilled and motivated professionals.

 

For more info on the scheme check out our presentation slides HERE 

 

You can also watch the video of our info session HERE,

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What Is a Shadowing Opportunity?

A shadowing opportunity is a useful way for those working in the industry to shadow / observe a more senior member in the industry whilst on the job. This has historically been a successful intervention for above the line roles, like shadow directors and shadow producers, on a project.

For companies/employers/producers, this opportunity will help to develop skills on the job, using best practise examples from senior or more established industry professionals.

For individuals, taking part on a shadowing placement, this provides the opportunity to enhance employability and create a support network of potential contacts for the future.

To get the most out of the shadowing opportunity, individuals should be eager, enthusiastic to learn and positive.

How the Scheme Works

The aspiring shadow applies to be part of the Crew National Talent Academies’ database.  If eligible, the shadow will be notified and included in that year’s database. As shadowing opportunities are production and sector-driven and guided by skills and role gaps, there is no guarantee you will be offered a position. The type and quantity of opportunities is production-led and out of the control of the Crew National Talent Academies. We will host your information, provide it when suitable and if selected, we will fund the placement, but again, there is no guarantee that being on the database that you will be offered a placement.

If selected, shadowing can take place over a minimum of 5 days and up to a maximum of 15 days on a production; this is assessed on a case-by-case basis. The shadowing days can be consecutive or non-consecutive; this will be determined by the role you are shadowing and the schedule that best benefits the production and the learning experience.

A gross contribution of €140 per day for the shadow is covered by the National Talent Academies.  Shadows will have to cover their own expenses such as travel/subsistence.  Further financial support can be considered on a case-by-case basis where travel distances are a proven obstacle.

The Role of the Shadow

This is an opportunity for industry professionals to observe and understand essential skills on the job. The types of skills could be role specific skills, leadership skills, management skills and technical skills that are essential for that person to move up in the next stage in their career.

Shadowing tends to be more observational in nature, with some hands-on elements.

Shadows will be expected to commit to learning goals and review progress over the duration of the shadowship. Takeaways from the shadowing may be published on the National Talent Academies’ website and social media channels with the prior approval of the shadow and shadowed professional.

The Role of the Professional Shadowed

To facilitate a positive shadowing experience for the shadow by sharing their expertise and experience, and allowing space to be observed whilst undertaking their professional tasks and responsibilities.

WE ARE SEEKING TO BUILD A LIST OF EXPERT CREW WHO ARE INTERESTED IN BEING SHADOWED AS A WAY TO SHARE KNOWLEDGE - PLEASE REGISTER HERE TO BE ON OUR DATABASE. 

The Role of the Production

To facilitate a positive shadowing experience for the shadow by providing a work environment that is respectful, responsible, and nurturing.

Am I Eligible?

The Crew Shadowing Scheme is targeted at experienced below-the-line crew on the verge of stepping up as HOD or expert crew upskilling in an area they’re not familiar with, like a new type of tech, or a different genre of production (period, sci-fi). If on the verge of stepping up to HOD, the applicant should have at least 2 years’ experience in their current role/level. If working in a role where there has been historical representational inequality and/or lack of access or working on smaller budget indigenous productions, applicants will be assessed against experience and statement of ambition.

Shadowing supervisory roles may be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on department structure and industry role gaps. 

The application process is competitive. Benefit to the Irish Film & TV sector must accrue from the applicants’ participation in the scheme.

Please note that shadows will generally be expected to transport themselves to/from set/production office unless there are exceptional circumstances (determined on a case-by-case basis), neither the Academies or the Productions will have the resources to facilitate this.

Application Procedure

The scheme’s database has an open application format and can be applied for at any time. 

Please apply via this LINK.

For further information, please email crew.shadowing@nationaltalentacademies.ie

The National Talent Academies’ courses are open to all regardless of gender, race, religion, sexual orientation or disability.

Selection Process:

The applications will be assessed based on eligibility criteria and against Screen Ireland’s Competency Framework where appropriate (see above paragraph Am I Eligible?).  If on the verge of stepping up to HOD, the applicant should have at least 2 years’ experience in their current role/level.

You will be notified after applying whether you’ve been successful or not in securing a place on the NTA Crew Shadowing Database.

Depending on the requirements of productions hosting shadows, and industry need re skills and roles gaps, applicants’ CVs will be shared with productions and offers made to relevant applicants. Other applicants will be kept on file for upcoming opportunities.

Please note that there is no guarantee you will be offered a position. The type and quantity of opportunities is production-led and out of the control of the Crew National Talent Academies. We will host your information, provide it when suitable and if selected, we will fund the placement, but again, there is no guarantee by being on the database that you will be offered a placement.