As part of the Work Based Learning programme, Skillset Media Academy Wales and its partners, (the University of Wales, Newport; Aberystwyth University, Swansea Metropolitan University and Cardiff Metropolitan University) are delivering the Skillset Academi+ creative media training programme which aims to meet the needs of industry employees and freelancers in the Convergence region of Wales.
Skillset Academi+ was first piloted in Wales from 2009 to March 2011, during which time the scheme assisted over 350 industry professionals by running 54 courses. Having used this opportunity, which was funded by HEFCW, the Academy has fostered new partnerships with experts and has proven a track record of targeted training appealing to a wide cross sector of the industry. In 2012, the second phase of training will be funded by the EU’s Convergence European Social Fund (ESF) through the Welsh Government.
Meeting the training needs of the Creative Media Industries
The impact of digital technology, combined with the recession, has increased the speed of change within the Creative industry, transforming the way in which we operate. The focus of Skillset Academi+ is to enable Welsh companies and freelancers to re-skill through high quality and flexible training that is entirely tailored towards real industry needs in this digital age.
The concept for this training programme draws on hard evidence produced by Skillset on the impact of the recession and changes in digital technology on the Creative Media sector in Wales. Recently gathered research shows which skills are needed to help companies and freelancers weather the economic downturn and come out the other side with a competitive edge.
The content of courses offered by Skillset Academi+ has been shaped by feedback from industry practitioners on priority skills gaps and training needs.
Who can take part in Skillset Academi+ courses?
The Skillset Academi+ programme supports those working in the creative media industry. Whether you are a new entrant or an experienced professional, no matter how long you have worked in the industry or the current stage of your career, ongoing training is essential. The industry is defined by change, and as we move into a new digital age the rate of change continues to accelerate.
To check you are eligible to apply please click here.
Do you own or manage a company based in the convergence area of Wales?
Improve your management and leadership skills, train in high-level production skills or gain a better understanding of business processes and development.
Do you own or manage a company based outside the convergence area of Wales, but have staff who live within the convergence area of Wales?
We can provide training to those who live and/or work in the convergence area. If you have staff who live within the convergence area we can train these individuals on our fully/part funded courses.
Are you an employee or freelancer, living and/or working in the convergence area of Wales?
Improve and enhance your technical skills with our innovative vocational courses, covering key areas such as advanced animation techniques, marketing & financial management, publishing, design, games & app development, advertising design and photo Imaging.
Not eligible? What next?
If you are not currently eligible to undertake our courses, don’t worry. In the next phase of our project we intend to make these courses commercially available to those who are not eligible under the ESF guidelines. Please contact us for further details.
