A CULT Scottish TV show is launching a “first of its kind” film school offering people the chance to get into the television production industry.

BBC Studios and Screen Scotland have partnered up to create the River City Training Academy, aimed at developing and retaining Scotland’s best talent both on and off-screen.

The scheme will run over two years with the first cohort to begin this month.

Participants will be given access to classes and workshops, while a filming unit – made up of River City’s technical crew and actors - will work in a no-pressure environment to teach the trainees.

Beyond the initial training, on-set opportunities will be offered within their new roles.

Kris Green, training executive at BBC Studios Continuing Drama, says: “River City sits proudly at the heart of the Scottish TV landscape and the joint enterprise between BBC Studios and Screen Scotland means we can bring to life an ambitious Training Academy that not only trains key talent for the show; but also nurtures the wider pipeline of creative talent in Scotland.”

River City already has a rich history of nurturing talent both on and off screen over the last 21 years, including actor Sam Heughan (Outlander), director Lynsey Miller (Anne Boleyn, Deadwater Fell), writer Ciara Conway (Screw, Holby City), producer Jess Connell (Tin Star, For Her Sins) and many more.

The Training Academy hopes to continue to build upon this and not only strengthen the River City team, but also contribute to the rich and diverse skillset within the Scottish television and film industry as a whole.

Martin McCardie, executive producer of River City for BBC Studios, says: “Since River City began in 2002 it has always been a gateway into the industry for many, from directors, DOPs, Camera Operators, Boom Ops to 1st, 2nd and 3rd ADs, all have passed through the doors of BBC Studios in Dumbarton.

“The Academy will be a game changer in building on our success rate in giving people an opportunity to come into the industry in Scotland, strengthening the pipeline of production talent and delivering even more award winners of the future.”

Applications to register interest for the January 2024 cohort are now open via the BBC Careers website and will see a whole new group of entry-level trainees start their careers in storylining, sound, camera, costume, makeup design and more.