Passport to Production (March 2026)

Course Profile

This course will run over 6 days in March 2026 from 9.30am to 5pm each day. The 3-week paid work placements will take place over April/May/June 2026.

Passport to Production is a Screen Ireland Flag ship programme validated by Technological University Dublin as a level 6 QQI 10 ECTS credit programme, and is run by the National Talent Academies.

Passport to Production aims to drive wider representation in the creative screen industry and is eager to encourage new entrants from diverse and underrepresented groups to apply. 

To work in the film and TV production sector as a new entrant you will need a diverse range of skills to get you set-ready. 

This 6-day programme is one of the most beneficial stepping-stones to access the film & TV industry and forms the basis of the new entrant’s journey to working in the industry. 

The programme will give a broad overview of all the departments and help equip new entrants with the knowledge and some of the essential skills to work on set.  There will be some practical elements during the programme which will be part of a hybrid approach consisting of group activities, industry panel experts and case studies.  Other important elements of the programme include Health and Safety, set etiquette, script breakdown, self-management, and soft skills in the industry.  Industry feedback internationally and nationally continually highlights the need for future skills such as problem-solving, adaptive thinking, creative collaboration, and emotional intelligence. 

The essential learning from the programme will be put into practice on the 3-week paid structured work placement.  

The programme will be facilitated and delivered by industry experts and design thinkers which include tutors, guest speakers and panellists. 

Each learner will need to attend each day of the 6-day programme and the 3-week paid structured work placement shortly after the course is completed.

Units of Learning

Future Proofing on the Job 

• Emotional Intelligence: Building self-awareness, motivation, empathy, social skills, and confidence
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Cultivating a great team environment, active listening, and giving feedback effectively
• Managing Stress
• Creative Thinking
• User-Centred Approach and Brainstorming

The 360 of Set Etiquette 

• Who’s who?
• How Departments Interact
• Radio Etiquette
• Sensitivity around Cast and Crew
• Production Terminology and Jargon
• Essential Production Paperwork
• Copyright, Product Placement, and Clearances Basics
• Script Breakdown with a Practical Exercise
• Overview of Basic Financial Accounts for Film and TV Drama
• Technical Jargon on Set

Health and Safety on Set 

• Legislation and Risk Assessments
• Film Set Safety Protocol and Culture
• Role as a Crew Member
• Departmental Hazards in Production
• Bullying and Harassment

Self-Management in the Industry 

• Navigating the Industry
• Managing as a Freelancer
• STAR Technique
• CV Clinic
• HR Basics
• Getting Your First Job
• Reading Contracts
• Essential Networking

Participant Profile

• New Entrants – moving into trainee level.
• Aimed at those wanting to work in the live-action film and TV industry in a below-the-line role (NOT Writers, Directors, or Producers).
• Must be of working age and NOT in full-time education.

Application Procedure

• Apply online HERE by 12pm on Thursday 5th Feb, 2026.
• Limited to 16 participants, based on application and interview.
• Late applications will not be considered.
• If interview stage is reached, they will take place on Weds 18th Feb and Thursday 19th Feb 2026.
• For technical difficulties, email crew.east@nationaltalentacademies.ie

Selection Criteria:

• Quality of application and proven interest relevant to the course and participant profile.
• No CVs accepted; outline all relevant experience in the application form.
• Open to all regardless of gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or disability.
• This Passport to Production Programme will prioritise applicants looking to work in the Assistant Directors, Accounts, Art (Buyers, Set Decorators), Costume, Grips, Locations, Sound, and VFX departments.

Reasonable Accommodations:
We aim to accommodate all attendees to help ensure they can successfully participate in our programmes. Adjustments or modifications will be made to help those with disabilities fully participate in our training events.