Nikki Chamberlain

1. What made you decide to apply for your trainee position on the Northern Routes Training Scheme?
It seemed like too much of a good opportunity not to. I have always been interested in working in this industry but never really had the chance to get involved.

2. Please give a brief outline of your previous experience, related to this training position.
I had no previous experience in television or film production whatsoever. I have worked alongside accounts teams before so had a vague understanding of what they do. I also had lots of enthusiasm and and a willingness to learn! I have only been on my placement for three weeks so far but feel as if I have learnt so much already.

3. There were nearly 500 applications for 22 places across the North of England, how did it feel to be chosen?
I was so chuffed and couldn't quite believe it at first, I thought there might have been a mistake! Then I got really nervous... but its all been great so far!

4. What have you been up to so far on your placement?
In the production office I have been inputting purchase orders into an internal system (one was for 40 Santa costumes!) and have been keeping up to date with the petty cash. I have also been working out costs for putting cast and crew up in hotels.

5. What's been the best bit(s)?
Going out on set was a new experience which I really enjoy but I also love seeing how much everything costs and watching it add up. I'm working with a great crew, everyone has been so helpful.

6. What are your long term career aims and how do you feel this scheme will help you achieve them?
This scheme has given me a really good understanding of how the industry works and how a production comes together, which has been really interesting. Meeting other people and finding out about their jobs and how they got into the industry has also given me a better idea of where to go from here when the scheme ends. I will definitely be looking to work on another production.