Film & Screen Apprenticeship

Wild Child Animation; Stirling; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

Wild Child Animation is offering an 11-month apprenticeship program in animation for young individuals. This opportunity provides hands-on experience in the Film and Screen industries, with rotations through various departments and support in achieving an SQA Film & Screen Award.

Benefits

On-the-job technical training

Soft skills coaching

Holiday entitlement

Qualifications

• Aged 16-17 (must be at least 16 by 7th July 2025)
• Strong artistic skills and interest in creative industries

Responsibilities

• Work on live studio projects contributing to animated television.
• Rotate through departments to develop skills in various aspects of animation.

Skills

Artistic skills

Interest in animation, film & TV

Job description

Join Wild Child Animation as part of their apprenticeship programme! Apprentices will work with the studio for 11 months (44 weeks) gaining invaluable experience in the Film and Screen industries by learning the craft of making animated television. You will work on live studio projects with your work contributing to your attaining an SQA level 5 or level 6 Film and Screen Award certificate.

Throughout the apprenticeship, you will rotate through departments over a period of 11 months. During this time, you will develop your skills and experience in Art and Design, Storytelling and Editing, CG and 2D Asset creation, Animation, and the Production departments. You will receive on-the-job technical training, soft skills coaching, and will be well supported in attaining valuable skills for employment in a competitive industry.

Who are we looking for?

We are seeking young people with skills in art and an interest in film and television. Our ideal candidate is a school leaver in 5th or 6th year with strengths in art and design, looking to step into the filmmaking world. You must be able to work at the Wild Child Animation studio in Stirling, Scotland, for at least two days a week and commute independently for a 10 am start.

Applicants Should Be

• Aged 16-17 (must be at least 16 by 7th July 2025)
• Interested in animation, film & TV, or other creative industries with strong artistic skills
• Able to commute independently to Stirling

You will also work off-site weekly, either at home or in a provided space, needing a quiet environment and a good internet connection. Wild Child Animation will supply necessary equipment; funding for internet access may be available if needed.

Working hours & pay

This position is contracted for 15 hours weekly across three days: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, with work at the studio on Tuesday and Thursday, and from home on Wednesday. Overtime may be available after three months, with hours agreed in advance. The start date is mid-August 2025, with graduation in July 2026. Pay is at the national minimum wage, dependent on age (£7.55 - £10.00 per hour). You will receive holiday entitlement, with holiday hours accrued and paid monthly.

Studio Closures

• Summer Break: 4th-15th August 2025
• Festive Break: 23rd December 2025 - 2nd January 2026
• Easter 2026: Date TBC

These closures will be deducted from holiday allowances.

Timeline

Months 1-3: Industry introduction; Months 4-6: Department rotations; Months 7-11: Skill consolidation and specialization.

Future Prospects

Upon completion, you will have a solid foundation in animation production, industry-standard software experience, and a Film & Screen Award. You will be ready for roles in animation, film, TV, or games, with transferable skills applicable in advertising, design, digital media, and content creation.

About The Film And Screen Award

This apprenticeship includes a Film & Screen Award, accredited by SQA at Level 5 or 6. Assessment is practical, focusing on portfolio work, progress diaries, and informal discussions, supported by an assessor from Forth Valley College.

The Award Is Made Up Of Three Units

• Film and Screen Elements: Explore film and screen content, experimenting with camera work, composition, sound, and storytelling.
• Craft and Technical Roles: Rotations through departments to understand collaborative workflows in animation and screen production.
• Creative Project: Create a team-based animatic for a children’s TV series, applying learned skills and receiving feedback.

This qualification recognizes your achievements and ability to work on real-world projects.

How to apply

Create an art piece inspired by the theme ‘Creature’ and answer a few questions about yourself, such as your favourite film or TV character, your preferred art tool, and why you want to join. Submit your work and responses by 8th June 2025, 11:59 PM.

For questions, contact Suzie Brearley at [e-mail].

Selection Process

Long-listed candidates will be contacted for a short call and asked to complete a digital form. Short-listed candidates will be invited to a group workshop at Stirling studio, where they'll showcase their creative talents and communication skills. Feedback and career advice will be provided.

About The Delivery Partners

Wild Child Animation specializes in children’s TV, having worked with major broadcasters and winning awards. Forth Valley College offers a wide range of educational courses, and Screen Scotland supports the development of Scotland’s film and TV industry. The SQA provides national qualifications, supporting learners across Scotland and beyond.