PRODUCTION MANAGERS COURSE
A fully-funded course to help get you into one of the industry’s most in-demand roles!
About The Course
Cost
Completely free.
This course is fully funded by BFBS.
For Whom
Service leavers and veterans.
For those who are interested in the world of media and wish to use their existing skillset within a new and challenging environment
Duration
8 Months - The course starts in September 2025 and finishes May 2026.
Experience
No prior experience required.
This course is designed with valuable practical knowledge and industry placements, that connect you directly to the media sector. You'll begin at entry-level and develop your expertise to progress through production roles towards Production Co-ordinator and Production Manager positions.
What We Offer
Financial Support
There are no course fees to pay. All costs are borne by the BFBS Academy. All students also receive a tax-free bursary of £10,400 over eight months to help with living costs and accommodation.
Work Placement
In addition to the core curriculum, Academy students will participate in industry placements ranging from 4-6 weeks, with duration based on requirements and opportunities.
Through our supportive partnerships with leading broadcast and media organisations, our students gain hands on valuable experience in real world professional environments.
Extra Qualifications
Our students will have the opportunity to work through and be assessed on a Level 3 in Podcast Production accredited by OCN London.
What is Production Management ?
Production Management is at the heart of every successful TV and film project.
As a Production Manager, you'll be deeply involved in all phases of production, from initial planning through to final delivery.
During pre-production, you'll develop essential skills in budgeting, scheduling, location management, crew coordination, and transport logistics. Overseeing all aspects of production while ensuring the health and safety of crew and equipment.
To excel in this field, you'll develop several key attributes. The role demands planning and communication abilities, along with excellence in working under pressure. You'll need to demonstrate meticulous attention to detail and expert negotiation skills. Building extensive industry networks and maintaining thorough knowledge of media laws and regulations are also essential components of the role.
This course prepares you for the dynamic challenges of Production Management, equipping you with the comprehensive skillset needed to thrive in today's TV and film industry.
Skills You Will Gain
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The core curriculum will cover all aspects of creative media skillsets.
- Single and multicamera operations
- Audio and Podcast production
- Postproduction (editing)
- Content capture
- Planning and researching
- Risk assessment and budgeting
- Legal and compliance themes
- Logistics and resource management
The course very much emulates working within the media industry in that there are individual as well as group tasks working to tight deadlines to exacting client briefs.
An important aspect of the curriculum is progression planning. This involves getting a portfolio of evidence together in preparation for employer interviews and work placements.
How To Apply
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The course will run from September 2025, finishing in May 2026.
Applications are now open!
Please download and complete the form below and return it to [email protected]
The closing date for applications is Friday 16th May 2025; we intend to begin the interview process after that date, with offers being sent out in June.
Who Should Apply?
Service leavers and veterans
The Production Managers course is designed for service leavers and veterans with a keen interest in the world of media and who wish to use their existing skillset within a new and challenging environment.
Once you realise that this role involves all aspects of planning and supporting the wider production team – overseeing a project from concept to delivery, you will see that it dovetails very well with your previous military experiences.
Entry requirements
Only a limited number of spaces are available.
- No age restrictions – applications welcome from all who are committed to a career in the Creative Industries.
- English and Maths GCSE at grade A* - C (or equivalent) required.
- Personal statement and CV must be submitted with application.
- Selected applicants will be invited to an interview.
- Selections based on aptitude, attitude and suitability for the course.
- References will be requested after offers are made.
If you have any queries in relation to course requirements, please do email us on [email protected].
Learning Resources
Facilities
The BFBS Academy has facilities to suit and support all service leavers and veterans, including those who are wounded, injured or sick. The classroom, Green Screen area and library are all wheelchair accessible.
Materials and Equipment
Equipment such as video cameras, computers and editing software will be provided. Each student will be allocated a laptop with all the latest Adobe software uploaded.
Student have access to broadcast standard equipment in our multicamera studio. They will be instructed in safe working practices. Once kit has been signed out to an individual, they have sole responsibility of the safety and security of said equipment.
Each student will be allocated a laptop with all the required professional software uploaded. Each student is also responsible for utilising safe working practices in relation to IT safety and to protect their laptop from virus infection.
Course lecturers
Course Lecturers
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Adam Blackmore -Heal- Subject Specialism - Postproduction
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David Kline - Subject Specialism - Scripting and TV Production
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Andy Sayers - Subject Specialism - Radio & Audio Technologies
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Kim Nguyen – Subject Specialism – Production Management and TV Production
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Lyndon Ives - Subject Specialism - Production and Postproduction technician
Our tutors have been selected based on their professional media experience gained in industry, as well as their proven academic ability.
As our intention is to bring current and credible industry practice to the course, this will be achieved by utilising a range of guest speakers, visiting lecturers and masterclasses.
Masterclass
Masterclass Program
Each Friday morning a masterclass is scheduled into the course scheme of work. The subject matter covered varies from Digital Media skills to Production Risk Assessment for Outside Broadcast.
The Academy has been generously supported by the wider media community who deliver bespoke masterclasses to support progression to Production Manager roles after graduation.
Some masterclasses are planned and delivered by our in-house staff who very generously share their subject knowledge and experience with the learners. The sessions are peppered with real life examples, which brings the subject to life for the cohort.
About BFBS Academy
The BFBS Academy is designed to provide veterans and service leavers with the training, experience, and qualifications to help them transition into a multi-media role.
The BFBS Academy is run by the British Forces Broadcasting Service (BFBS). We specialise in providing media services to the UK Armed Forces.
We have approximately 200 staff that are specialist broadcasters, journalists, camera operators, studio directors, broadcast technicians and experts in digital communications.
Student Insight
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Alex Harrison
I have really enjoyed my time here at the BFBS Academy on the Production Manager's course, the staff have been very helpful and supportive. I was drawn to this course to help get a better understanding of the industry and help me personally produce better content.
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Sue Cumberland
The Academy staff are exceptional. Similar to the military, there is a wealth of breadth of knowledge and experience, including one Veteran instructor. The instructors have varied experience of Production Management to creatives; this made the learning environment relatable and diverse. I particularly enjoyed the creative element; learning how to use equipment properly, how to edit and procure podcasts and short films.
I would highly recommend the course to fellow Veterans who are unsure where their next career lies, and want an insight into how their transferable skills can transfer to a new industry.
Get in Touch
If you have any questions about the BFBS Academy, the course or the application process please get in touch via the contact form or email us: [email protected]
GETTING TO US
The BFBS Academy is run out of BFBS's headquarters in Chalfont St. Peter, Buckinghamshire, just 30 minutes by train from London.
The closest overland station is Gerrards Cross, and the closest underground station is Chalfont & Latimer. We are also within easy reach of the M40, M25 and M4.
ADDRESS
BFBS Academy · Chalfont Grove · Narcot Lane · Chalfont St. Peter · Buckinghamshire · SL9 8TN