What is a Camera Prep Technician Apprenticeship?
Camera Prep Technicians are one of the first vital steps in the making of any film or television production. They are the people that help prepare and supply camera equipment that is complete, works effectively, is correctly maintained, and is appropriately configured and accessorised to be suitable for a given production or purpose.
Barry Bassett, Managing Director of VMI, instigated the project after he discovered that both VMI and many other camera rental companies had found it increasingly difficult to recruit and retain camera technicians. So, the idea was born to create an alternative entry route to the TV industry to attending university.
Recognising that there is an Industry skills shortage the Camera Prep Technician Apprenticeship was developed by VMI with the support of ScreenSkills, and a Trailblazer Group including VMI, S+O Media, Panavision, Movietech, ARRI Rental, Shoot Blue, CVP, Focus 24, Shift-4, Brownian Motion, The Kit Room, PixiPixel, 24-7 Drama, Promotion, Aimimage, and Take-2.
This is the first industry backed Level 3 route to a career as a Camera Prep Technician. The Camera Prep Technician Apprenticeship is a 18-month vocational paid programme with a starting salary of £12k per annum. Successful applicants will spend 4 days a week learning on the job while working with an employer, and one day studying in college. At the end of the formal training period, successful apprentices are guaranteed a full-time position with the company recruiting them.
