Barnardo’s participant shines on film studio work placement

Written by Rachel Nanson, Project Worker, Barnardo’s

Barnardo’s Works supports young people and their families towards secure independent and sustainable employment, study or further training. Services are available throughout Edinburgh and Midlothian to 15 – 29 year-olds applying for college or looking for a job or apprenticeship.  There are a variety of group and tailored individual programmes that help young people gain valuable life and work skills, qualifications and practical work experience.  This also extends to parents or carers, to provide a more extensive family package.

Jack is a young person currently engaging with the Barnardo’s Works Best programme in Edinburgh, which is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.  Jack has weekly one-to-one support meetings with his project worker Nicola.  During the sessions, Jack identified that some hands-on work experience could give him the edge in job applications and furnish him with some additional practical skills.

At the beginning of this year, Barnardo’s Employer Liaison Officer Dawn Parkes made great links with the LBM Dept Q Ltd in Leith.  Together they identified opportunities for Barnardo’s young people to get involved in numerous departments across the production of the TV series, including lighting, set building, and running.  Jack attended a set visit where he was given a tour of the gigantic studio and shown inside all the meticulously built rooms and sets. He was introduced to a handful of the crew and learned all about the health and safety responsibilities on set.

Following his introduction, Jack spent five days working in the construction department helping to build and create the film sets. He was sworn to secrecy by signing a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) so he couldn’t tell us much more than that about the production itself!  However, we do know that he developed lots of fantastic skills, learning from the experienced joinery team there.  Jack travelled a long way to get the studio every day, arriving with an upbeat smile and ready to work hard. His supervisors were very impressed with his contributions and his dedication.  He made great links with people working in the industry and gained professional advice. He was also encouraged to work towards his CSCS card to be eligible for other opportunities in the construction industry.

After completing this placement, Jack’s confidence has increased, and he is currently participating in a week-long work trial which may lead to a full-time job. Other young people supported by Barnardo’s have been able to participate in work experiences across the TV production and have really flourished during their time there. The Barnardo’s team are very grateful to the LBM Dept Q Ltd. team for giving them these transformational opportunities.  

You can find out more about Barnardo’s Works in the East of Scotland here.