Skillset is reacting to the overwhelming demand for stereoscopic 3D training in the film industry with the release of £20,000 to pay for 3D training for film professionals.

Recent research by Skillset found that 3D production was identified by employers in the animation industry as one of the most common areas where skills gaps exist.

Skillset is offering up to £800 to fund 3D training for film or documentary professionals who are likely to be working on a 3D project within the next 12 months.

This scheme will support any structured 3D training short course for the following technical departments;

* Post Production – Editing and VFX
* Digital Imaging Technician
* Animation
* CGI

As the total funding pot for this scheme is just £20,000, and Skillset expects there will be a high demand for these bursaries, film professionals are advised to apply straight away, before the money runs out.

Skillset director of film, Neil Peplow, said: “Over the past couple of months we have received a record number of phone calls from people wanting to find out about 3D training – what’s available and where is it – and more importantly if there is any funding available. In response to these enquiries, and given the huge growth in the demand for 3D content this year led by not only blockbuster films such as Streetdance 3D and Avatar but also by the launch of the UK’s first 3D TV channel, we are now launching a Stereoscopic 3D bursary scheme.”

This scheme is now live on the Skillset website, with full eligibility and application details available at Film Skills Fund Bursaries.

This bursary scheme is just one of a range of initiatives that Skillset’s Film Skills Fund is supporting as part of A Bigger Future 2, in response to the rise of 3D filmmaking and new technology. In January, Skillset is supporting ‘Advanced 3D – The National Stereoscopic 3D Training Programme’, a three-day workshop run by Principal Large Format. Skillset is also involved with Ravensbourne’s 3D Storytelling Conference, which is being held on 6-7 January.

www.skillset.org