Building a Sustainable and Inclusive Irish Screen Industry
“Your mental and physical health shouldn’t be a commodity you’re burning for your career.”
The Irish screen industry is experiencing a period of dynamic growth and transformation, fuelled by a new wave of talent and a commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and practical support. In a recent episode of ‘Garry Talks: Film’, Eibh O'Brien Collins and Lorraine Higgins from the National Talent Academy (NTA) shared their expertise and experiences, offering a comprehensive look at how the NTA is shaping the future of film, television drama, animation, and VFX in Ireland.
This blog post provides a roadmap for emerging and established creatives seeking to thrive in the Irish screen industry.
The NTA’s Mission: Nurturing Talent at Every Level
The National Talent Academy is not just for newcomers or recent graduates. As Eibh emphasises, the NTA supports:
Above-the-line talent: Writers, directors, producers, and script editors.
Crew and technical roles: Through regional academies like Crew West, Crew East, and Crew South.
All career stages: From those just starting out to established professionals seeking to upskill or return after a career break.
Key Takeaway:
The NTA’s programmes are designed to be inclusive, supporting people of all ages, backgrounds, and experience levels. Whether you’re switching careers, returning after time away, or looking to move up the ladder, there’s a place for you.
Breaking Down Barriers: Inclusivity and Access
A recurring theme is the NTA’s commitment to making the industry accessible to everyone, not just the young or well-connected.
How the NTA Fosters Inclusivity
Open application processes: No ‘who you know’ advantage; selection is based on merit and fit.
Support for diverse backgrounds: Many successful entrants come from non-traditional routes, including those with experience in other sectors.
Access funding: The NTA covers costs such as childcare, translators, and accessible venues, removing financial and logistical barriers.
Normalising access needs: By openly discussing and funding access requirements, the NTA is making it standard practice rather than an exception.
Actionable Advice:
If you have specific access needs, communicate them confidently. The NTA is committed to supporting you, and your openness helps set new industry standards.
Work-Life Balance: Job-Sharing and Childcare Initiatives
The film industry is notorious for long hours and unpredictable schedules, which can be especially challenging for parents and carers. Lorraine Higgins highlights several NTA initiatives addressing this:
Key Programmes
Job-sharing schemes: Developed with Raising Films Ireland, these allow two professionals to share a role, making it easier to balance work and family life.
Childcare at industry events: For example, providing childcare at the Galway Film Fleadh, enabling parents to attend workshops and networking sessions.
Crossover funding: Financial support for productions to facilitate handovers between job-sharers.
Expert Insight:
Job-sharing is not a panacea, but it’s a vital tool for retaining experienced talent who might otherwise leave the industry due to inflexible working conditions.
Shadow Placements and Mentorship: Building Real-World Experience
One of the NTA’s flagship offerings is its shadow placement programme, which gives emerging talent hands-on experience on professional sets.
How It Works
Industry-led placements: Productions request shadow talent based on specific criteria (e.g., location, identity).
Structured, funded opportunities: Placements last from two to eight weeks and may include prep, shooting, or writers’ room experience.
Mentoring component: Many placements include ongoing mentorship, tailored to the participant’s needs.
The Value of Mentorship
Formalised relationships: The NTA pays mentors, ensuring a professional, sustainable dynamic.
Matching for success: Pairings are based on communication style and current needs, not just prestige.
Long-term support: Mentors help with everything from funding applications to career navigation.
Actionable Advice:
Apply for shadow placements and mentorships even if you feel underqualified. The NTA values potential and commitment as much as experience.
Practical Pathways: Entry Points and Career Progression
The Irish screen industry offers a variety of entry points beyond the traditional creative roles.
Examples of Alternative Pathways
Production accounting: No formal degree required; many start with entry-level courses and work placements.
Technical and support roles: Still photography, set design, and more.
Transferable skills: Experience from other sectors (e.g., hospitality, administration) is highly valued.
Expert Tip:
Don’t be deterred if you lack a film degree. Focus on building practical skills, a strong work ethic, and a positive reputation.
Application Success: Standing Out in a Competitive Field
With over 100 initiatives and thousands of participants, competition is fierce. Eibh offers these insights:
How to Strengthen Your Application
Read course profiles carefully: Tailor your application to the specific programme.
Craft a compelling personal statement: Go beyond your CV - explain your motivations, goals, and what you hope to gain.
Seek feedback: If unsuccessful, ask for advice and consider alternative programmes.
Persistence pays: Many successful applicants faced initial rejections.
Actionable Advice:
Treat every application as a learning opportunity. Engage with the NTA team at events or online to build relationships and gain insights.
Wellbeing and Sustainability: Avoiding Burnout
Both Eibh and Lorraine are candid about the industry’s demands:
Long hours and job insecurity: The reality of film work can be draining.
Mental health support: The NTA advocates for systemic changes, such as job-sharing and reasonable working hours.
Self-awareness: It’s okay to decide the industry isn’t for you. Recognising this early can save time and stress.
Expert Advice:
Before accepting a job, ask yourself if you’d want to answer a call from that person right now. If not, reconsider. Prioritise your wellbeing and seek supportive environments.
Embracing Diversity: Language, Backgrounds, and New Voices
The NTA is at the forefront of promoting diversity in all its forms:
Irish language initiatives: Programmes like Skill Set help crew gain confidence working in Irish-language productions.
Regional support: Centres like Galway are becoming hubs for Irish-language and culturally specific projects.
Genre diversity: From horror to drama, a wide range of stories and voices are now represented.
Actionable Advice:
If you have a unique perspective or story, the industry wants to hear from you. Don’t self-censor - diversity is a strength.
Actionable Tips for Aspiring Filmmakers
Getting Started
Explore the NTA website: Sign up for newsletters and stay informed about upcoming opportunities.
Attend networking events: Even online participation can help you build connections.
Hone your application skills: Focus on personal statements and clear communication.
Be present and engaged on set: Even in quiet moments, stay attentive and ready to help.
Embrace new technologies: Stay informed about virtual production and AI, but approach with caution and ethical awareness.
Building a Career
Be honest about your strengths: Find roles that suit your temperament and skills.
Maintain professionalism: Your reputation is your calling card.
Seek feedback and mentorship: Don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice.
Be patient and persistent: Success is rarely instant; resilience is key.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Irish Screen Industry
The conversation with Eibh O'Brien Collins and Lorraine Higgins makes it clear: the Irish screen industry is not only growing, but evolving in ways that prioritise people, stories, and sustainability. With the National Talent Academy leading the charge, there is a tangible commitment to:
Continuous learning: Programmes are regularly updated to reflect industry changes and emerging technologies.
Community building: Collaboration and peer support are central to the NTA’s ethos.
Global ambition: Irish talent is increasingly recognised on the world stage, and the NTA is preparing creatives to compete and collaborate internationally.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career, the National Talent Academy offers a wealth of resources, support, and opportunities. Visit the NTA website, sign up for updates, and don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or ideas.