A quarter of secondary school pupils don’t see a career in film as a viable option due to a lack of industry connections, according to a study. The research, which surveyed 500 students aged 13 to 18, found that 68 per cent are unsure about how their school subjects could lead to careers in film and TV.
In fact, 67 per cent said they would never consider a career in the industry, with a third (34 per cent) citing a lack of knowledge about the roles available. This study was commissioned by Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, which is set to host a free Creative Careers Fair on 30th September, welcoming schoolchildren from Years 8 to 13 into the Great Hall.
This comes as the Campaign for the Arts revealed that GCSE entries in arts subjects have plummeted by 47 per cent over the past 15 years, while A-level entries have decreased by 31 per cent.
A separate report from the British Film Institute has also underscored a shortage of production crew at all levels due to the rapid expansion in film and TV production.
Julie Green, from Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, said: “There’s a need for fresh, diverse talent behind the camera. But children cannot be what they cannot see, so we’re committed to opening their eyes to the roles available.”
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is urging teachers to enrol their students in the event organised by the education and learning manager at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London.
This unique opportunity will allow pupils to meet professionals who worked on the Harry Potter films, including the head creature sculptor, head prop maker and costume curator.
An additional survey of 500 parents with children aged between 13 and 18 revealed that 42 per cent would encourage their offspring to pursue a career in film.
Nearly two-thirds (64 per cent) of these parents believe it’s most important for their child to follow a career they are truly passionate about. However, 18 per cent expressed concern over the lack of investment in creative education.
They also highlighted the lack of visibility of people working in film, leading to little awareness of the variety of jobs available in the industry.
Among students, only 24 per cent could name one or two behind-the-camera roles. The most common answers were ‘actor’, ‘producer’ and ‘director’, despite there being thousands of other roles in filmmaking.
The poll also disclosed that 41 per cent of these students are still uncertain about what they want to do when they leave school, with 17 per cent admitting they don’t know where to start when it comes to exploring potential job roles.
The Creative Careers Fair, building on the tour’s education programme, now offers creative classes for students.
The event – aimed at students over 16 – will include presentations from industry professionals and demonstrations of how subjects such as art, physics, English and design can lead to careers in costume, editing, effects and production.
Green added: “We want to help young people realise there’s a place for them in the industry, whether they’re interested in technology, design, movement, storytelling, or science.”