Students ready for TV production roles following Peaky Blinders Bootcamp

60 West Midlands-based students are well on their way into high-end TV Production careers after completing their bespoke training bootcamp aligned with the upcoming new series of Peaky Blinders.

Kudos Knight, the creative partnership between multi-award-winning writer, director and executive producer, Steven Knight, and production company Kudos partnered with Solihull College & University Centre, Create Central, and the West Midlands Combined Authority to deliver the free bespoke training courses to local people.

Group of Peaky Blinders bootcampers outside Digbeth Loc studios in Birmingham

Three distinct routes were available. One for those starting out in the industry, one aimed at accelerating mid-level crew and a third for those with skills which are transferable to high-end TV production (such as carpenters, art dept, hair & make up).

The bootcamps consisted of practical training as well as industry-led sessions from experts in TV.

The courses were funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority. Mayor of the West Midlands, Richard Parker, commented: “The West Midlands is fast becoming the place to be for the UK’s creative industries, we’re a region buzzing with talent, ambition and world-class opportunity. Many of the people on these bootcamps are already taking their first steps towards exciting careers in our rapidly growing creative sector, and there’s no better way to learn the craft than from the very best in the business.

“Huge opportunities are opening up thanks to the investment we’ve secured from some of the biggest names in global TV and film, putting the West Midlands firmly on the creative map. I want us to continue working with partners in the creative industries to train the next generation and create high-quality jobs for our on-screen and behind-the-camera talent. That means young people no longer have to leave home to chase their dreams, they can do it right here in the West Midlands.”

Bootcamp Manager at Solihull College & University Centre, Sophie Jolly, commented: “It’s so important that we build strong creative communities and a sustainable local talent pipeline, so when production companies come here, there are people equipped with the skills and confidence to step into new productions. We can already see the impact this has in creating real opportunities for local employment. This has been an incredible experience for people who may never have worked in TV before, as well as those with existing skills they want to develop. It’s given them the chance to upskill, build confidence, and take that next step into the industry. We’ve worked closely with Kudos Knight to ensure these bootcampers leave here equipped with the right skills to progress, grow, and move towards that dream role.”

The bootcampers were treated to a behind the scenes look at the Digbeth Loc studios where the new series of Peaky Blinders will be filmed. They also took part in panel discussions with leading industry experts from BBC Studios, Kudos and Create Central.

The new series of Peaky Blinders will start filming later this year and it’s hoped some of the bootcampers will soon see their names on the end credits.

Group of bootcampers outside Digbeth Loc Studios