BBC plans new producers’ academy

Published Wednesday 25 April 2007 at 16:35 by Matthew Hemley

An academy aimed at training up and coming producers to work across the BBC’s slate of drama series is being developed by the corporation in a bid to bring fresh talent into the industry.

The academy would sit alongside the BBC’s existing ones for writers and directors, which give new talent the chance to work on returning series such as Holby City, EastEnders, Casualty and Doctors.

BBC controller of drama production John Yorke, who is the brains behind the existing academies, said the idea was in its early stages.

He said: “We are still working out the details but we would be looking for people who already have a bit of experience in TV.”

The BBC has recently announced the launch of its third Writers’ Academy and is currently calling for applicants.

Yorke said the academies were vital to keep drama at the BBC fresh.

He said: “Drawing from the same pool means there is a danger things can go stale. Particularly with writers, the well was getting very dry and we had to do something.

“It is also vital for the health of the industry to get the next generation of writers and directors in TV.”

Yorke also hinted at a slate of new drama series for the BBC, claiming there were several in the pipeline.