Careers and guidance staff from secondary schools across the Highlands and Islands have gone behind the scenes to explore what the screen industries can offer young people growing up in the region.
The one-day event, hosted by UHI North, West and Hebrides at its Alness campus, brought together local educators and national partners to highlight the breadth of career pathways available in film and television, without the need to relocate to the central belt.
The event was delivered in partnership with screen education charity Into Film, Developing the Young Workforce (DYW), and Screen Highland, with support from leading industry professionals working across television drama, factual content, and film production.
The day featured hands-on workshops facilitated by working freelancers alongside discussions with guest speakers who’ve helped shape some of the UK’s most recognisable screen content.
Cailean Watt, documentary producer and director (BBC Highland Cops), Mike Webster, drama and documentary director (Jenny Graham’s Round the World Adventure), Gordon McIntyre, locations manager (Skyfall), and Lindy Cameron, producer and editor (Katie Morag, American Cousins), all shared stories from their careers — and the practical realities of life behind the lens.
For many of the guidance staff attending, it was an eye-opening experience.
Lindy Cameron, who is based in Cromarty, said she was struck by how eager the participants were to learn more about the film and television world, not just for their pupils, but for their own understanding.
“It was great to meet the careers advisors and to see how much they want to give their young folk good steers for their onward journeys after their school education ends,” she said.
“They were all enthusiastic to learn about the potential there is in moving image as a career path and to hear about the wide range of roles that exist within the industry, something to suit all strengths and skill sets.
“I think that establishing a link with industry practitioners and people doing vital work in education is a really great initiative.”
Peter Noble, Head of Creative Arts at UHI North, West and Hebrides, said events like this are essential to combat assumptions that a creative career means moving away.
“The event was an opportunity to showcase the breadth of creative arts opportunities available across UHI North, West and Hebrides,” he said.
“Our students can explore film, sound production, music, art, jewellery, fashion, textiles and creative writing, supported by a diverse team of staff based throughout the region.
“This means students can pursue their creative ambitions locally, without needing to relocate to the central belt.”
That message, that the Highlands can be a launchpad for screen industry success was echoed throughout the day.
Nicola Kettlewood, Scotland Programme Lead at Into Film, said making the industry feel accessible was a key aim.
“We’re delighted to be collaborating with UHI North, West and Hebrides and DYW to deliver this event,” she said.
“Through it, we aim to demonstrate the range of roles available within the screen industries as well as signposting these jobs as being accessible for young people from the Highlands.”
That accessibility, Kettlewood added, doesn’t just mean job titles, it means networks, opportunities, and real role models.
Stacie MacDonald, DYW school coordinator for South Highland, believes the event helps break down barriers between local potential and global industries.
“Working in partnership with UHI North, West and Hebrides and Into Film has allowed us to bring a range of new skills and information to young people and educators across the Highlands,” she said.
“The film industry is a viable Highland career, and exploration of it should be encouraged within education.
“With excellent training, facilities and connections such as those provided via Into Film, and the UHI team at the Alness campus, we can set young people on their career path confidently.”
Jane Young, Careers Advisor at Skills Development Scotland, summed up the mood:
“The event was fantastic and highlighted that young people have opportunities to get into the screen industries in the Highlands.
“I’ll be advising young people about the creative industries provision at UHI North, West and Hebrides.”
A follow-up behind-the-scenes event for pupils in S3 and above will take place at Eden Court Theatre in Inverness later this month.
It will offer hands-on access to the same industry voices, with the goal of inspiring the next generation of Highland creatives to see their future not just in film, but in film made here.
