Devon & Cornwall Research into Skills
The final phase of South West Screen's Media Sector Skills Action Research has now been commissioned. The research, focusing on Devon and Cornwall Media Sector will be led by
Diane Peacock, (see Cornwall Media Focus event above) an independent researcher and supported by Dave Hotchkiss who is based at Plymouth College of Art and Design and lives in
Cornwall.
Diane and Dave are aware that many members in Cornwall have already contributed by providing information and comments for the various surveys relating to the Regional Media Industries.
They are therefore working closely with Joan Beveridge at Creative Kernow to ensure there is no duplication of your effort and time.
If you are a media related company or work freelance in Cornwall, you may be approached, initially by telephone by a member of the project team during November and December. Otherwise anyone wishing make a contribution to discussions about future developments and training/support infrastructures for media in the region can contact Diane:
email or telephone 07792 585725
or Dave:
email or telephone 01752 203402.
Research really can impact on future delivery, if you have ideas, comments, or specific training needs please email them to above address. Have your say on the future of the audio visual industries Now's the time to get involved in a crucial consultation process on the future of our audio visual industries.
Skillset's TV Skills Strategy's being drafted to provide an up-to-date picture of the skills, talent and company development needs of the UK's television industry, based on Skillset's on-going research and intelligence programme, along with newly commissioned research.
Following draft 1, South West Screen commented that while a systematic approach is being taken by Skillset, it is also slightly London-centric. It's felt more could be made of existing structures developed for and by the industry instead of simply setting out a three-way partnership between Skillset, employers and the government. South West Screen would also like to see the local TV
stations and their links to local advertising given a higher profile in the report, highlighting how the national and regional aspects of the industry fit together.
There are also some concerns that The Annual Census, the basis for some of the research, underestimates figures for the South West as it can only provide a snapshot. We're calling for
greater recognition of the output from the region's 4 broadcasting sites and growing independent production sector.
Above all, South West Screen is trying to ensure smaller companies outside London aren't alienated at a time when broadcasters such as Channel 4 are being urged to commission a
greater percentage of production from outside the M25 area.
They also feel the role of Higher Education Institutions in research and development, especially in innovative technologies and utilities, could be mentioned and encouraged to become more involved.
Finally, the strategy should really also acknowledge the new entry and other training initiatives taking place in the South West. A Regional Audio Visual strategy will be posted on Skillset's website - please take a look and if you haven't already had your say, please send any comments to email , South West Screen's Director of Education and Skills. | 
