Mission Accomplished

NI Step Up to HOD: Lead and manage your team with confidence
2025-01-13 - 2025-03-24 | Belfast TBC, Belfast, Ireland
Register InterestApplication deadline 23:59 on 15th December 20240000Days00Hrs00Min00Sec
Are you a Northern Ireland based screen professional with 5+ years' experience?

Are you looking to Step Up to Head of Department and/or lead your team?
We are looking for Northern Ireland based industry professionals working in craft, technical, editorial or production roles across scripted (Film, HETV or continuing drama), unscripted, animation or post-production and who are looking to step up and lead their teams.
Stepping up to lead a team can be daunting. As a leader and manager, your approach and thinking needs to develop as you take on extra responsibility.
Led by Mission Accomplished CEO, Alison Grade, with guest speaker sessions from a range of exciting industry experts, this training course is designed to support you as you Learn to Lead in Film and TV and Step Up to HOD.
Mission Accomplished is particularly keen to receive applications from traditionally excluded groups especially those from:
People from racialised identitiesPeople that are (d)Deaf, Disabled and/or NeurodivergentThose who are care-experienced.People from a refugee or disadvantaged migrant communityThose from a Gypsy, Roma or Traveller communityPeople from LGBTQI+ CommunitiesPeople from a working class/low-income background (or if you have identified as such in the past)We welcome applications from all individuals. If you would like support completing the application form and/or would like us to send it to you in an alternative format, please email training@mission.guru
Register InterestTHE COURSE WILL COVER
THE COURSE WILL COVER:

What does stepping up to lead your team involve?
Understanding team dynamics and personalities
Managing budgets and schedules
Inclusive recruitment, working practices
Dealing with conflict and managing performance
Health and Safety considerations for leaders and manager
Looking after ourselves and our teams
Pitching myself to take on an HOD / leadership role

By the end of the course, participants will have practical and actionable leadership and management strategies to build a vibrant, motivated and resilient creative team, as well as having developed their confidence in taking on a new challenge and thriving in a leadership / HOD role.
COURSE FORMAT
The course will be delivered as a mix of in-person workshops in Northern Ireland and online masterclasses from working leaders / HODs.

4 x Saturdays In-Person Workshops.
6 x 2 hour Monday-Evening Online Workshops.
2 x 1 hour Mentoring and Shadowing (arranged to suit).
3 x 1 hour Online Employability 1-2-1's (arranged to suit).
Book club

Along side in-person training participants are expected to complete On demand E-Learning Modules.
APPLICATION PROCESS
KEY DATES

Applications close at 23.59 on 15th December 2024

Interviews (online)

17th of December 2024
18th of December 2024

COURSE DATES AND OUTLINE
COURSE OUTLINE

Session
Duration
Course Content

Session 1 – in person
Saturday, 18th January 2025
All day
What does Stepping up to HOD involve?

What does success look like? What role is the goal to step up to? And on what size/scale of production? (which band / time slot / channel?)
What is leadership and management? And expectations
Why delegation is important

Recruitment, inclusion and team dynamics

Building inclusive and diverse teams / building cultural awareness and sensitivity
Inclusive and good hiring and working practices
Ensuring content and practices are culturally sensitive
Knowing and motivating my team

About me: Skills audit and Building a CV and portfolio for Stepping Up
Book Club

Masterclass 1 – online
Monday, 27th January
2 hours
Midweek evening
Working with Line Producer, Series Producer, Producer and Director – Dealing with and planning for changes
Guest speaker Q&A

Session 2 – in person
Guest Speaker Budgeting – Caroline
Saturday, 1st February 2025

All day
Managing budgets and schedules

How do you create a department budget and schedule?
Estimating labour and materials
Tracking and forecasting costs
Contingencies
Relationship with Production Accountant and Line Producer
Negotiation fundamentals – rates/industry standards/labour/material

Pitching and Presenting

Interview prep, pitching and presentation prep

About me: Building networks and supporters
Book Club

Masterclass 2 – online
Monday, 10th February 2025

2 hours
Midweek evening
Make a Move, Agents and gaining representation
Guest speaker Q&A

Session 3 – in person
First Option
Saturday, 22nd February 2025

All day
Health and Safety

H&S for HODs and leaders
Risk Management of Production course delivered by First Option

Masterclass 3 – online
Monday, 10th March 2025

2 hours
Midweek evening
Looking after ourselves, our people and our planet

Building resilient teams and becoming a resilient leader
Dealing with imposter syndrome
Mental Health for you and your team
Creating a safe space
Sustainability in industry
Environmental impact and the role of HODs in promoting sustainability

Session 4 – in person
Saturday, 15th March 2025

All day
Managing performance, challenging situations, giving and receiving feedback

Dealing with conflict
Managing team performance
Giving feedback
Delivering bad news
Making difficult decisions
Managing up as well as down

Pitching and presenting

Practical activity – practice pitches and mock interviews

Masterclass 4 – online
Monday, 24th March 2025

2 hours
Midweek evening
About me: Where do I fit in the NI landscape and how to do I find Stepping Up opportunities? Step Up Stories.

Q&A with NI Screen and recently stepped-up alumni from across UK

MENTORING AND COACHING
MENTORING AND COACHING
Each learner will be matched with a mentor from their department who is a couple of steps ahead of them on their journey. This will enable the learners to gain department specific knowledge for their stepping up journey, along with the broader leadership and management challenges faced by all those who step up.
In addition, each participant will be offered 2 x 1 hour 1-2-1 bespoke CV / employability support to help them identify the role and production they are looking to step up to and assist them with their CV, pitch and interview skills.
BY THE END OF THE TRAINING COURSE
By the end of the training course, participants will:

Understand the role and responsibilities of a leader / HOD
Have the skills and knowledge to step up to leader / HOD
Have developed knowledge of budgeting responsibility as leader / HOD
Know themselves and what they bring to a team
Have developed Leadership and Management skills needed for the role
Understand the Health and Safety responsibities of a leader / HOD
Have strategies and tactics for managing a team
Feel confident to pitch themselves into a stepped up position as HOD and/or team leader

COURSE DIRECTOR AND LEAD TUTOR
Alison Grade | Course Director
Alison founded and runs Mission Accomplished. The company regularly delivers training courses for ScreenSkills. Alison is an experienced Line Producer and Production Manager as well as a Nesta Accredited Creative Enterprise Trainer. She regularly delivers training that enables creatives to take their careers to the next level. Alison is the author of Penguin published book, The Freelance Bible and offers many workshops and training programmes to support freelancers.
Register Interest Delivery team Our Funders This course is funded by Northern Ireland Screen, supported by the BFI and the National Lottery.
Register InterestAge +18 (4)
Career stage Early (5)
Children's (14)
Early Experienced (10)
Experienced (13)
Film (44)
For Approval (5)
Freelancing (13)
HETV (61)
ScreenSkills (75)
Scripted (8)
Training (87)
Unscripted (32)

Unscripted TV Development Assistant Producer Training Programme
2025-05-09 - 2025-07-10 | Birmingham TBC, Birmingham, B1, United Kingdom
Apply now Application deadline 23:59 on 30th March 20250000Days00Hrs00Min00Sec
Are you working as a Development AP and looking to upskill in your role?

Are you newly appointed in a Development AP role and keen to hone your skills?

Are you an experienced Development Researcher ready to move up to a Development AP role?
Mission Accomplished are delivering a brand-new Unscripted Development Assistant Producer training programme.
The training will run in two cohorts (one in May and one in July – precise dates TBC). Training sessions will take place on weekdays during standard office hours. The schedule includes:

4 x 3-hour online sessions (including an array of guest speakers)
2 x in-person training days (Birmingham)
1-2-1 session with the course leader
6-month work placement as a Development AP – with partial salary support from the ScreenSkills Unscripted Skills Fund.

We’re looking to recruit 20 delegates based across the UK.
This programme is aimed at those who have demonstrable experience working in unscripted TV development at Development AP or Development Researcher level. You could be a newly appointed Development AP, eager to hone their skills and build confidence, or an experienced Development Researcher, ready to step up into a Development AP position.
You can access this course in two ways:

Independent Route: If you’re a freelancer or between contracts, you can apply for one of our dedicated placement opportunities. Please note: You will need to be approved by both the training provider and the placement company to be selected for the training.
Company Route: If you are currently working for a company as a Development AP, or about to be stepped up from Development Researcher, and your current production company is supporting your application, you can apply with a letter of recommendation.Please note:

The company must be committed to a six-month placement and agree to top up the salary contribution provided by the ScreenSkills Unscripted Production Fund.
No more than 50% of the places will be allocated via this route.
Host companies must evidence a need for partaking in the programme to create this opportunity.

There is a fee of £300 (+VAT) for this course, which is payable upon enrolment. Bursaries are available and will be prioritised for independent applicants.
Mission Accomplished is particularly keen to receive applications from traditionally excluded groups especially those from:
People from racialised identitiesPeople that are (d)Deaf, Disabled and/or NeurodivergentThose who are care-experienced.People from a refugee or disadvantaged migrant communityThose from a Gypsy, Roma or Traveller communityPeople from LGBTQI+ CommunitiesPeople from a working class/low-income background (or if you have identified as such in the past)If you need additional support to complete your application or require the application form in an alternative format, please contact USF@screenskills.com .
Apply now THE COURSE WILL COVER
THE COURSE WILL COVER:
This course is aimed at addressing the lack of training for Development AP talent and is aimed at ensuring they are ready to tackle the current and future challenges within the unscripted TV sector.
The course will cover the development process within a production company:

Brief
Ideation
Formulating the Idea
Creating Pitch Decks
Sizzles

Course content headlines include:

Thriving as a Development AP in an evolving landscape
The business of creativity
Maximising creative performance
Leadership, managing teams and setting boundaries
The Developer's Guide to Production
How to be the best Dev AP you possibly can

COURSE FORMAT
Subject to market conditions, the placements will run concurrently with the training to maximise opportunities to implement the learning. The training itself will be split across two cohorts:
Cohort 1 dates (placements beginning in May):

Friday, 9th May, 2-5 pm – Online
Tuesday, 20th & Wednesday, 21st May – In-person full days in Birmingham
Thursday, 5th June, 2-5 pm – Online
Thursday, 19th June, 2-5 pm – Online
Thursday, 10th July, 2-5 pm – Online

Cohort 2 dates (placements beginning in July):

Thursday, 3rd July, 2-5 pm – Online
Monday, 14th & Tuesday, 15th July – In-person full days in Birmingham
Thursday, 7th August, 2-5 pm – Online
Thursday, 21st August, 2-5 pm – Online
Thursday, 4th September, 2-5 pm – Online

HOW TO APPLY
Click 'Apply Now' at the top of the page and follow the instructions to complete your application through the ScreenSkills website.
You must have demonstrable experience working in unscripted TV development at Development AP or Development Researcher level.
In the application, you will be asked to specify whether you are applying for support as a freelancer or an employee of an unscripted TV company. If you are applying as an employee, you will need to provide your company name and the contact person we can reach if you are successful.
You will also be asked for your three most recent credits. Please provide the programme/series title and your job role.
While most questions in the application form are multiple choice or require short answers, four questions will require longer answers. For your preparation, these four questions are:

Why do you feel you are a suitable candidate for this training programme at this time in your career?
What are you looking to achieve by completing this training programme?
Do you have any other hobbies, interests, or specialist knowledge that could influence your practice?
What is your future career goal?

If you need additional support to complete your application or require the application form in an alternative format please contact USF@screenskills.com
KEY DATES
KEY DATES:

Application Deadline – Sunday, 30th March, 23:59 2025
First-round interviews with Mission Accomplished commence – Monday, 7th April, 2025
Second-round interviews with the production company offering placement commence – Monday, 14th April 2025

You will need to be approved by both the training provider and the placement company to be selected for the training.
BY THE END OF THE TRAINING COURSE
By the end of the training course, participants will:

Understand the role and responsibilities of a Development Assistant Producer
Have the skills and knowledge to take on a role at Development Assistant Producer level
Know themselves and their creative identity
Know their buyers (channels / SVODs) and how to crack them
Understand the need to look at ideas afresh and be continually challenging their thinking
Have started to develop Leadership and Management skills needed for the role
Have developed their brainstorming and ideation skills and upscaled their creative processes
Understand access, talent, their assets and how to sell them

COURSE DIRECTOR AND LEAD TUTOR
Alison Grade | Course Director
Alison founded and runs Mission Accomplished. The company regularly delivers training courses for ScreenSkills. Alison is an experienced Line Producer and Production Manager as well as a Nesta Accredited Creative Enterprise Trainer. She regularly delivers training that enables creatives to take their careers to the next level. Alison is the author of Penguin published book, The Freelance Bible and offers many workshops and training programmes to support freelancers.
Sophie Morgan | Course Trainer
She is an experienced TV and multi-platform content creator, screenwriter and development consultant with over twenty-years working as award-winning creative director, commissioning editor and BAFTA-nominated producer. Working in the UK and US, she has developed, and exec produced hundreds of hours of TV content including Britain's Next Top Model, RuPaul's Drag Race, London Ink and Jade.
In 2021 she founded multi-platform ideation and development consultancy Pontariva Media with the aim of adding value to production companies, multiplatform content studios and broadcasters like Channel 4 and Sky. They do this by helping them devise more ambitious, omni platform content and find innovative ways to exploit IP, use emerging technology and design new funding models.
She also devises and delivers industry training on topics including Gen AI, agile leadership, industry diversification and best creative practice and runs regular workshops for ScreenSkills and Creative Enterprise as well as the NFTS and Warwick University. She chairs several industry panels for Broadcast's AI summits and is a neurodiversity advocate and mentor. She has written two novels and two screenplays for Sky and the BBC.
Delivery team Our Funders This training programme is funded by the ScreenSkills Unscripted TV Skills Fund which invests in training for the unscripted workforce thanks to contributions from broadcasters, SVoDs and production companies.
Apply now Age +18 (4)
Career stage Early (5)
Children's (14)
Early Experienced (10)
Experienced (13)
Film (44)
For Approval (5)
Freelancing (13)
HETV (61)
ScreenSkills (75)
Scripted (8)
Training (87)
Unscripted (32)

TV and Film Fusion
2025-06-07 - 2025-07-27 | BOA Stage and Screen Academy, 49 Stour Street, Birmingham, B18 7AJ, Birmingham, B18 7AJ, United Kingdom
Application deadline18th May0000Days00Hrs00Min00Sec
Have you always wanted to earn your living making TV shows and Films but not known how to get started and have no experience?

Are you a new entrant in Film or TV looking to bridge the gap between scripted and unscripted and build a portfolio career?

Aged 19 or over?

Resident in the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA)* region?
If you answered yes to these questions, then this FREE training course is for you.
*This includes residents of Birmingham City Council, Coventry City Council, Dudley Metro Borough Council, Sandwell Metro Borough Council, Solihull Metro Borough Council, Walsall Council and City of Wolverhampton.
Mission Accomplished is particularly keen to receive applications from traditionally excluded groups especially those from:
People from racialised identitiesPeople that are (d)Deaf, Disabled and/or NeurodivergentThose who are care-experienced.People from a refugee or disadvantaged migrant communityThose from a Gypsy, Roma or Traveller communityPeople from LGBTQI+ CommunitiesPeople from a working class/low-income background (or if you have identified as such in the past)We welcome applications from all individuals. If you would like support completing the application form and/or would like us to send it to you in an alternative format, please email fusion@mission.guru
WHAT WILL I LEARN ?
THE COURSE WILL COVER:
What are the roles and opportunities for me in TV and Film ?

Learn about all types and genres of TV and Film productions. Such as Peaky Blinders, Father Brown, Phoenix Rise, MasterChef, The Gadget Show, Late Night Lycett and Travel Man.
Understand the workflow of different genres, from single-camera setups to studio productions and big budget dramas.
Discover how many people and different skills it takes to make your favourite shows.
Gain practical technical skills for new entrant positions in the TV and Film industry.
Build an industry focussed CV.
Develop a bespoke and actionable career pathway in both TV and Film sectors locally.
Be trained by local industry professionals who are looking for new-entrants on their up coming productions.

By the end of this course , you’ll have the confidence and know-how to pursue new entrant roles in scripted and unscripted, build a fulfilling career in the fast-paced world of TV and Film and have had the opportunity to be trained by local industry professionals.
HOW DO I APPLY ?
Once you submit your application we will give you a call to answer any further questions you might have about the next steps and to confirm your eligibility and availability.
Following this, all applications will be reviewed and shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an interview either in-person or online.
Applications deadline: Wednesday 7th May 23:59.
Interviews Dates:

Week of 12th – 16th of May (we will offer some online and some in person)

Notifications will be sent out after interview.
COURSE DATES & OUTLINE
COURSE DATES:
Sessions will run weekends, from 7th of June – until 27th of July.
Please note Mission Accomplished offers ongoing employability support for 6 months following the end of the course.
All sessions take place every Saturday and Sunday from 9:00–16:30
EXAMPLE COURSE OUTLINE
Please note: the course outline and session order are subject to change.
Alongside the in-person production training there will be regular employability support including CV clinics, self-directed learning and industry-accredited e-learning modules, which participants will be expected to complete between production workshops.
Throughout the year, there will be guest speaker events for all TV and Film Fusion participants to meet local employers and crew in the region and hear about their roles, their career journey and current opportunities.

Session Number
Course Content

Block 1
Practical Production Workshop (1 Day)
Saturday 7th June 2025
Starting Points, Goals and Ambitions

Block 1
Practical Production Workshop (1 Day)
Sunday 8th June 2025
Development: Ideation, Briefs and Pitches

Block 2
Practical Production Workshop (2 Days)Sat/Sun 21st and 22nd June 2025
Saturday: Scripted Production – Rehearsal day
Sunday: Scripted Production – Filming day

Block 3
Practical Production Workshop (2 Days)Sat/Sun 5th and 6th July 2025
Saturday: Unscripted Production – VT Filming
Sunday: Post Production – Introduction to editing and creating mobile-first content

Block 4
Practical Production Workshop (2 Days)Sat/Sun 19th and 20th July 2025
Saturday: Production Management
Sunday: Multi Camera Production – Rehearsal day

Block 5
Practical Production Workshop (1 Day)Sat 26th July 2025
Multi Camera Production – Filming day

Block 5
Practical Production Workshop (1 Day)Sun 27th July 2025
Course Wrap-up and Presentations

WHERE WILL I LEARN ?
All training will take place at BOA Stage and Screen Academy, 48 Stour St Birmingham B18 7AJ
WHO WILL TEACH ME ?

Alison Grade | Course Director
Alison founded and runs Mission Accomplished. The company regularly delivers training courses for ScreenSkills. Alison is an experienced Line Producer and Production Manager as well as a Nesta Accredited Creative Enterprise Trainer. She regularly delivers training that enables creatives to take their careers to the next level. Alison is the author of Penguin published book, The Freelance Bible and offers many workshops and training programmes to support freelancers.
OUR TRAINING TEAM DELIVERS IN COLLABORATION WITH LOCAL INDUSTRY PROFESSIONS
On each practical training day we collaborate with industry professionals who are experts in this area of Film or TV production to share their knowledge and bring current best practice to our training.
Industry professionals who support our training include:

Perjit Aujla, Executive Producer
Louise Tugwel, Producer/Director
Maria Needle, Vision Mixer
Leanne Tattum, Producer
Oli Hills, Nonsensical Agency
Kirsten Stoddart, Line Producer
Daniel Alexander, Director
Sam Stevens, DOP
Billy Bannister, Sound
Stefan Davis, AD
Pam Kaur, Script Supervisor
Sian O’Brien, Editor

We also work closely with the participants on our Step Up to HOD Programme who are also WM-based industry professionals.
FUNDING CRITERIA AND ELIGIBILITY
Eligibility is a requirement of our funding and means that we are able to offer this training FREE of charge.
This course open to all residents in the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) region who are:

Aged 19 years or over*
Not currently in full or part time education
Not taken another WMCA funded course in the WMCA financial year (the financial year runs from September through to August)
The WMCA Funding rules for this training course state that all learners must have an eligible residency status.

There is absolutely NO experience or previous qualifications required to be eligible for this course, just a passion to work in Film and TV in the West Midlands region and/or be a new entrant looking to bridge the gap between scripted and unscripted TV and build a portfolio career.
However, if you are a graduate from Higher Education with either:

an arts and humanities degree including Film, TV, Radio, Animation, Communications, Journalism, Visual Communications, Production Design then you are NOT eligible for this course but you are likely to be eligible for Create Central’s Rock Up Ready training course.
or you graduated upto 3 years ago from any discipline AND you have experience in the film, television and screen industries then you are NOT eligible for this course but you are likely to be eligible for Create Central’s Rock Up Ready training course.

*AGE: To be eligible you need to have turned 19 on or before 31st August that precedes the start date of the course.
ADMINISTRATION TEAM

Piper Jady| Course Facilitator
Piper is keen to get stuck in as the TV and Film Fusion Facilitator. In her spare time she primarily produces, directs, and writes short films. Working as part BOA stage and Screen academy and collaborating with Mission Accomplished team, she is eager to help others find their path into the industry across all departments and roles.
If you have any questions please email me.
Delivery team Our Funders This programme is delivered by Mission Accomplished in partnership with BOA Stage and Screen Production Academy, with the support of the BFI, awarding National Lottery funding, and The West Midlands Combined Authority.
Age +18 (4)
Career stage Early (5)
Children's (14)
Early Experienced (10)
Experienced (13)
Film (44)
For Approval (5)
Freelancing (13)
HETV (61)
ScreenSkills (75)
Scripted (8)
Training (87)
Unscripted (32)

The WonderHub: Innovating development for creative leads ( Birmingham )
2026-01-21 - 2026-01-22 | Library of Birmingham, Centenary Sq, Birmingham, B1 2ND, United Kingdom
STOP PRESS: This event is now FREE to attend. Reserve your spot now. Limited places available.Book now
✓Do you lead or manage a development team within an unscripted indie?

✓Are you an experienced unscripted creative looking to develop future-focused development skills?

✓Do you want to rethink your approach to development but aren’t sure where to start?

✓Are you looking to identify sustainable and diverse revenue streams to futureproof your indie?
If this sounds like you then The WonderHub is the event for you.
Birmingham Wednesday 21st – Thursday 22nd January 2026 at Library of BirminghamGlasgowTuesday 3rd – Wednesday 4th February 2026 at The Social Hub Glasgow
This two-day symposium for senior creatives in unscripted TV casts creative and commercial eyes on the development process of the future. The WonderHub provides a space to explore and unlock innovative development strategies, develop skills, forge connections, build resilient and sustainable production companies that can respond to disruption.
The two days will host two immersive spaces designed to energise your creative thinking: the Wonder Hub and Innovation Station. In the Wonder Hub, we’ll explore how development and TV are evolving through live training sessions and expert Q&As. The Innovation Station connects you directly with leading specialists through hands-on demos and 1:1 consultations – covering everything from crafting the perfect thumbnail to creative uses of AI and designing a show-stopping sizzle. Together, these spaces deliver the inspiration and innovation to fuel your next big move.

Book now Wonder Hub A space to think and wonder for two days of big ideas through live training, expert Q&As, in a room bustling with creatives.
The power of the pivot: the definitive guide to building multiple revenue streamsWhy branded content matters (and why making it strengthens our TV ecosystem)If you want to go far, go together: secrets of successful collaborationsEmbracing innovation in developmentBehind the scenes: audience insights and the commissioning processCan you make money from YouTube and socials?Hiring for creative success and the future of dev teamsTop 10 emerging industry trends for 2026Show me the money!Lessons from the creator economyWhy Data MattersOriginality in the time of reboots: finding your creative niche in a risk-averse landscape Innovation station A space to connect in a future-focused hub of experts and innovators offering 1-1 demos and consultations.
AI UnpackedFull description
Sit down for a personalised 1–2–1 consultation with our resident AI expert, Stephanie Ronan-Chlond. Share your current challenges, from choosing the right tools to spotting new opportunities, and walk away with tailored guidance, best-practice recommendations and actionable next steps to elevate your workflows.
Meet the Founders: MotionHub AI platform

Full description
Meet the founders of MotionHub, the Innovate UK–backed AI platform transforming creative production. Explore how MotionHub streamlines storage, consents, transcription, cataloguing, project management and IP monetisation, all in one hub. Perfect for creators looking to supercharge their workflow with cutting-edge tools.
Sizzles That SellFull description
Grab a dedicated slot with experienced sizzle creator, Johnny Rickard to analyse your reel, refine your storytelling and tackle creative or technical challenges. Bring questions, ideas or specific issues and leave with practical insights to make your sizzle stand out.
The Thumbnail LabFull description
Sit down with a graphics designer who specialises in high-impact thumbnails for streaming platforms. Explore what makes a thumbnail compelling, how to visually convey a concept, and how strong design can elevate your pitch or project in an increasingly image-driven marketplace.
Experts joining us
B
Birmingham
G
Glasgow

Sophie Morgan

Award-winning TV and multiplatform content creator, screenwriter and development consultant (WonderHub Developer)

B
G

Perjit Aujla

Executive Producer / Development Executive (WonderHub Developer)
B
G

Hannah Southern

Commercial Lead, Podcast Discovery
B
G

Joe Connor

Graphics Designer
B
G

Johnny Rickard

Sizzle Editor and Content Creator
B
G

Nasfim Haque

Head of Content, BBC3
B

Stephanie Ronan-Chlond

TV Producer turned AI Filmmaker & Doctoral Researcher
B
G

Tafara Makopa

Chief Executive Officer, Mako Studios
B
G

Victoria Holden

MotionHub
B
G

Will Medhurst

BBC Audience Planner
B

Paul Heaney

Chief Executive Officer, BossaNova
B

Fiona Gillies

Co-founder, My Smash Media
B

Christine Hartland

Co-founder, My Smash Media
G

More experts to be announced soon…
STOP PRESS: This event is now FREE to attend. Reserve your spot now. Limited places available. Why The WonderHub ? Re-thinking business strategy is essential. Having a plurality of revenue streams is what will keep your business afloat. Smaller companies with lower overheads can move quicker and embrace change faster, but a solid business strategy is what will convert short-term wins into long-term success. The way development professionals generate ideas needs to innovate in order to survive. Audience viewing habits, buyer needs, and collaboration are evolving, with new tools and practices reshaping development. The companies that succeed are those adapting their approach to keep pace with change. Innovative leadership is vital. To keep pace with the changing shape of development and maximise the full potential of our teams and freelancers, the way leaders conceive and devolve their leadership is vital - as is looking after ourselves and making sure we are as effective as we possibly can be. Book now
Since the course I’ve spearheaded the implementation of AI into the development department of our company. Likewise, I’ve used many of the brainstorming techniques we were taught and have started to pursue opportunities for ad-funded programming which was something I hadn’t fully grasped before the course but now increasingly see it as crucial to the changing face of unscripted television.
Zena Oliani, Development ExecutiveThis event is funded by the ScreenSkills Unscripted TV Skills Fund which invests in training for the unscripted workforce thanks to contributions from broadcasters, SVoDs and production companies.
Delivery team Our Funders Birmingham Wednesday 21st – Thursday 22nd January 2026 at Library of BirminghamGlasgowTuesday 3rd – Wednesday 4th February 2026 at The Social Hub GlasgowWho’s it for?
We’re looking to host 40 attendees from across the UK at each event.
It is aimed at senior unscripted development professionals who work for an unscripted TV production company and/or are senior broadcast unscripted development freelancers. You’ll likely be a development producer, executive, head of department, or creative director. We are also open to hearing from senior professionals in unscripted who are looking to develop future-focused development skills.
Each event will take place across 2 days in-person.
Please only book for the one closest to where you live or work:

Birmingham, Library of Birmingham: Wednesday 21st – Thursday 22nd January 2026
Glasgow, The Social Hub: Tuesday 3rd – Wednesday 4th February 2026

We always welcome those from under-represented groups, including, but not limited to: those from minority ethnic groups; disabled people; people from the LGBT community and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds.
Places will be limited to a maximum of 2 attendees from the same company to ensure that as many indies are able to participate as possible.
Please contact Danny Roberts, Programme Manager on training@mission.guru for any enquiries booking your place at the event.
What it covers
What it covers
Structured around three key areas: Money, Innovation and People, The WonderHub is an exciting symposium for unscripted development professionals informed by the latest research and featuring sector experts, thought leaders and new-tech practitioners.
With additional breakouts offering live demos, one-to-one surgeries as well as informal networking and collaboration opportunities, attendees will leave The WonderHub feeling creatively recharged and ready to apply fresh, innovative thinking across all areas of their development.
WonderHub Developers
Speakers
Alison Grade
Alison founded and runs Mission Accomplished. The company regularly delivers training courses for ScreenSkills. Alison is an experienced Line Producer and Production Manager as well as a Nesta Accredited Creative Enterprise Trainer. She regularly delivers training that enables creatives to take their careers to the next level. Alison is the author of Penguin published book, The Freelance Bible and offers many workshops and training programmes to support freelancers.
Sophie Morgan
She is an experienced TV and multi-platform content creator, screenwriter and development consultant with over twenty-years working as award-winning creative director, commissioning editor and BAFTA-nominated producer. Working in the UK and US, she has developed, and exec produced hundreds of hours of TV content including Britain's Next Top Model, RuPaul's Drag Race, London Ink and Jade.
In 2021 she founded multi-platform ideation and development consultancy Pontariva Media with the aim of adding value to production companies, multiplatform content studios and broadcasters like Channel 4 and Sky. They do this by helping them devise more ambitious, omni platform content and find innovative ways to exploit IP, use emerging technology and design new funding models.
She also devises and delivers industry training on topics including Gen AI, agile leadership, industry diversification and best creative practice and runs regular workshops for ScreenSkills and Creative Enterprise as well as the NFTS and Warwick University. She chairs several industry panels for Broadcast's AI summits and is a neurodiversity advocate and mentor. She has written two novels and two screenplays for Sky and the BBC.

Perjit Aujla

Perjit has 13+ years' experience in factual TV as an RTS award-winning Series Producer, an Edit Producer and a former Head of Development. She has won commissions from Channel 4, Channel 5 and worked on programming as diverse as a Joe Wicks series for 4OD to the Bafta-nominated Cbeebies series Maddie's Do You Know.
Based in Leamington Spa, Perjit is a champion of the regions, producing and chairing local events on behalf of Women in Film and Television and RTS Midlands, where she is also on the committee. She has supported diverse off-screen talent via. Creative Access and the Channel 4 Trainee Scheme.

Book now

Thriving Mid-Career: Leadership, Finance & Freelance Sustainability
2026-01-31 - 2026-04-30 | Belfast TBC, Belfast, Ireland
Application deadline 23:59 on 4th January 2026 0000Days00Hrs00Min00Sec
Are you a Northern Ireland–based screen professional with 3–9 years’ experience?

Are you ready to strengthen your leadership skills, build financial confidence, and take control of your freelance career?
Thriving Mid-Career is a free, blended training programme from Mission Accomplished designed to help screen professionals at a pivotal stage in their career develop the tools, confidence, and strategies they need to build a sustainable future in the industry.
Delivered by Mission Accomplished CEO Alison Grade, alongside a host of guest speakers from across the UK and Northern Ireland, this practical programme focuses on leadership, finance, and career sustainability – the essential skills that underpin a thriving freelance life in screen.
Who it’s for? We’re looking for Northern Ireland–based professionals working in craft, technical, editorial, or production roles across any genre — including Film, HETV, continuing drama, unscripted, animation, and post-production — with 3–9 years’ industry experience.
You might be:

Feeling ready to step up into more senior or leadership roles
Wanting to gain confidence in managing relationships, money, and your career direction
Looking to be more strategic about your career in Northern Ireland rather than hopping from job to job

Mission Accomplished particularly welcomes applications from traditionally excluded or under-represented groups, especially those who identify as:
Black and/or Global Majority(d)Deaf, Disabled and/or NeurodivergentLGBTQIA+Working-class or low-income background (past or present)Care-experiencedRefugee or disadvantaged migrant backgroundFrom Gypsy, Roma, or Traveller communitiesIndustry returners or those with caring responsibilitiesWe welcome applications from all individuals. If you would like support completing the application form and/or would like us to send it to you in an alternative format, please email training@mission.guru
THE COURSE WILL COVER
THE COURSE WILL COVER:

Session
Details

Session 1 – in person
Saturday 31st January 2026
(0930 – 1630)
Understanding workplace behaviours
Honesty and accountability exercise
Creative and practical problem solving exercise
Freelancer Finances

Masterclass 1 – online (1830 – 2030)
Monday 2nd February 2026
Managing up
Guest speaker – Alex Oliver, Coach and Trainer

Masterclass 2 – online (1830 – 2030)
Monday 9th February 2026
Introduction to business affairs
Guest speaker – TBC, Producer

Masterclass 3 – online (1830 – 2030)
Monday 16th February 2026
Using AI effectively
Guest speaker – TBC

Session 2 – in person
Saturday 21st February 2026
(0930 – 1630)
Performance management, performance development and feedback
Pro-active problem solving

Dealing with conflict
Tech & AI Disruption
Crew Welfare & Leadership

Strategic career development – Being CEO of my freelance career

Masterclass 4 – online (1830 – 2030)
Monday 23rd February 2026
Next steps: ScreenSkills Make a Move, Regional picture in Northern Ireland. What does the future hold for the industry globally, nationally, and locally?
Guest speakers – NI Screen and ScreenSkills

E-learning and self-study between sessions via the Mission Accomplished Learning Portal.
KEY DATES
KEY DATES

Sunday 4th January 2026 – Applications close (23:59)
12th – 16th January 2026 – Online interviews
Saturday 31st January (0930 – 1630) – In-Person Session 1 (Belfast)
Monday 2nd February 2026 (1830 – 2030) – Masterclass 1: Managing Up & Leading Teams
Monday 9th February 2026 (1830 – 2030) – Masterclass 2: Legal, Business & Affairs Essentials
Monday 16th February 2026 (1830 – 2030) – Masterclass 3: Using AI effectively
Saturday 21st February 2026 (0930 – 1630) – In-Person Session 2 (Belfast)
Monday 23rd February 2026 (1830 – 2030) – Masterclass 4: Next steps in Northern Ireland

Interviews (online)

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to online interviews between 12–16 January 2026.
Successful participants will be notified by 20 January 2026.

COURSE DIRECTOR AND LEAD TUTOR
Alison Grade | Course Director
Alison founded and runs Mission Accomplished. The company regularly delivers training courses for ScreenSkills. Alison is an experienced Line Producer and Production Manager as well as a Nesta Accredited Creative Enterprise Trainer. She regularly delivers training that enables creatives to take their careers to the next level. Alison is the author of Penguin published book, The Freelance Bible and offers many workshops and training programmes to support freelancers.
Guest Speakers
Featuring national and Northern Ireland-based industry experts including:

Alex Oliver – Coach and Trainer (Managing Up)
TBC – Producer (Business Affairs)
NI Screen & ScreenSkills – Regional and national insights
Plus, special guest TBC on using AI in creative workflows

IS THERE A COST ?There is no cost to participate.
This programme is fully funded by our partners to make it accessible to freelancers across Northern Ireland. HOW TO APPLY ?

Applications are open now and close at 23:59 on Sunday 4th January 2026.
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to online interviews between 12–16th January 2026.
Successful participants will be notified by 20th January 2026.

Delivery team Our Funders This course is funded by Northern Ireland Screen, supported by the BFI and the National Lottery.
Age +18 (4)
Career stage Early (5)
Children's (14)
Early Experienced (10)
Experienced (13)
Film (44)
For Approval (5)
Freelancing (13)
HETV (61)
ScreenSkills (75)
Scripted (8)
Training (87)
Unscripted (32)

The WonderHub: Innovating development for creative leads (Glasgow)
2026-02-03 - 2026-02-04 | The Social Hub Glasgow, The Social Hub, 15 Candleriggs, Glasgow, G1 1TQ, United Kingdom
STOP PRESS: This event is now FREE to attend. Reserve your spot now. Limited places available.Book now
✓Do you lead or manage a development team within an unscripted indie?

✓Are you an experienced unscripted creative looking to develop future-focused development skills?

✓Do you want to rethink your approach to development but aren’t sure where to start?

✓Are you looking to identify sustainable and diverse revenue streams to futureproof your indie?
If this sounds like you then The WonderHub is the event for you.
Birmingham Wednesday 21st – Thursday 22nd January 2026 at Library of BirminghamGlasgowTuesday 3rd – Wednesday 4th February 2026 at The Social Hub Glasgow

This two-day symposium for senior creatives in unscripted TV casts creative and commercial eyes on the development process of the future. The WonderHub provides a space to explore and unlock innovative development strategies, develop skills, forge connections, build resilient and sustainable production companies that can respond to disruption.
The two days will host two immersive spaces designed to energise your creative thinking: the Wonder Hub and Innovation Station. In the Wonder Hub, we’ll explore how development and TV are evolving through live training sessions and expert Q&As. The Innovation Station connects you directly with leading specialists through hands-on demos and 1:1 consultations – covering everything from crafting the perfect thumbnail to creative uses of AI and designing a show-stopping sizzle. Together, these spaces deliver the inspiration and innovation to fuel your next big move.

Book now Wonder Hub A space to think and wonder for two days of big ideas through live training, expert Q&As, in a room bustling with creatives.
The power of the pivot: the definitive guide to building multiple revenue streamsWhy branded content matters (and why making it strengthens our TV ecosystem)If you want to go far, go together: secrets of successful collaborationsEmbracing innovation in developmentBehind the scenes: audience insights and the commissioning processCan you make money from YouTube and socials?Hiring for creative success and the future of dev teamsTop 10 emerging industry trends for 2026Show me the money!Lessons from the creator economyWhy Data MattersOriginality in the time of reboots: finding your creative niche in a risk-averse landscape Innovation station A space to connect in a future-focused hub of experts and innovators offering 1-1 demos and consultations.
AI UnpackedFull description
Sit down for a personalised 1–2–1 consultation with our resident AI expert, Stephanie Ronan-Chlond. Share your current challenges, from choosing the right tools to spotting new opportunities, and walk away with tailored guidance, best-practice recommendations and actionable next steps to elevate your workflows.
Meet the Founders: MotionHub AI platform

Full description
Meet the founders of MotionHub, the Innovate UK–backed AI platform transforming creative production. Explore how MotionHub streamlines storage, consents, transcription, cataloguing, project management and IP monetisation, all in one hub. Perfect for creators looking to supercharge their workflow with cutting-edge tools.
Sizzles That SellFull description
Grab a dedicated slot with experienced sizzle creator, Johnny Rickard to analyse your reel, refine your storytelling and tackle creative or technical challenges. Bring questions, ideas or specific issues and leave with practical insights to make your sizzle stand out.
The Thumbnail LabFull description
Sit down with a graphics designer who specialises in high-impact thumbnails for streaming platforms. Explore what makes a thumbnail compelling, how to visually convey a concept, and how strong design can elevate your pitch or project in an increasingly image-driven marketplace.
Meet the Founders: My Smash Media - IP Matching Platform

Full description
Meet the founders of My Smash Media, an IP matchmaking platform designed to bring creators and discoverers together. Explore how this platform can help you find projects that hit your brief and find the hidden gems you’re searching for.

Experts joining us
B
Birmingham
G
Glasgow

Sophie Morgan

Award-winning TV and multiplatform content creator, screenwriter and development consultant (WonderHub Developer)

B
G

Perjit Aujla

Executive Producer / Development Executive (WonderHub Developer)
B
G

Hannah Southern

Commercial Lead, Podcast Discovery
B
G

Joe Connor

Graphics Designer
B
G

Johnny Rickard

Sizzle Editor and Content Creator
B
G

Nasfim Haque

Head of Content, BBC3
B

Stephanie Ronan-Chlond

TV Producer turned AI Filmmaker & Doctoral Researcher
B
G

Tafara Makopa

Chief Executive Officer, Mako Studios
B
G

Victoria Holden

MotionHub
B
G

Will Medhurst

BBC Audience Planner
B

Paul Heaney

Chief Executive Officer, BossaNova
B

Fiona Gillies

Co-founder, My Smash Media
B

Christine Hartland

Co-founder, My Smash Media
G

More experts to be announced soon…
STOP PRESS: This event is now FREE to attend. Reserve your spot now. Limited places available. Why The WonderHub ? Re-thinking business strategy is essential. Having a plurality of revenue streams is what will keep your business afloat. Smaller companies with lower overheads can move quicker and embrace change faster, but a solid business strategy is what will convert short-term wins into long-term success. The way development professionals generate ideas needs to innovate in order to survive. Audience viewing habits, buyer needs, and collaboration are evolving, with new tools and practices reshaping development. The companies that succeed are those adapting their approach to keep pace with change. Innovative leadership is vital. To keep pace with the changing shape of development and maximise the full potential of our teams and freelancers, the way leaders conceive and devolve their leadership is vital - as is looking after ourselves and making sure we are as effective as we possibly can be. Book now
Since the course I’ve spearheaded the implementation of AI into the development department of our company. Likewise, I’ve used many of the brainstorming techniques we were taught and have started to pursue opportunities for ad-funded programming which was something I hadn’t fully grasped before the course but now increasingly see it as crucial to the changing face of unscripted television.
Zena Oliani, Development ExecutiveThis event is funded by the ScreenSkills Unscripted TV Skills Fund which invests in training for the unscripted workforce thanks to contributions from broadcasters, SVoDs and production companies.
Delivery team Our Funders Birmingham Wednesday 21st – Thursday 22nd January 2026 at Library of BirminghamGlasgowTuesday 3rd – Wednesday 4th February 2026 at The Social Hub GlasgowWho’s it for?
We’re looking to host 40 attendees from across the UK at each event.
It is aimed at senior unscripted development professionals who work for an unscripted TV production company and/or are senior broadcast unscripted development freelancers. You’ll likely be a development producer, executive, head of department, or creative director. We are also open to hearing from senior professionals in unscripted who are looking to develop future-focused development skills.
Each event will take place across 2 days in-person.
Please only book for the one closest to where you live or work:

Birmingham, Library of Birmingham: Wednesday 21st – Thursday 22nd January 2026
Glasgow, The Social Hub: Tuesday 3rd – Wednesday 4th February 2026

We always welcome those from under-represented groups, including, but not limited to: those from minority ethnic groups; disabled people; people from the LGBT community and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds.
Places will be limited to a maximum of 2 attendees from the same company to ensure that as many indies are able to participate as possible.
Please contact Danny Roberts, Programme Manager on training@mission.guru for any enquiries about booking your place at the event.
What it covers
What it covers
Structured around three key areas: Money, Innovation and People, The WonderHub is an exciting symposium for unscripted development professionals informed by the latest research and featuring sector experts, thought leaders and new-tech practitioners.
With additional breakouts offering live demos, one-to-one surgeries as well as informal networking and collaboration opportunities, attendees will leave The WonderHub feeling creatively recharged and ready to apply fresh, innovative thinking across all areas of their development.
WonderHub Developers
Speakers
Alison Grade
Alison founded and runs Mission Accomplished. The company regularly delivers training courses for ScreenSkills. Alison is an experienced Line Producer and Production Manager as well as a Nesta Accredited Creative Enterprise Trainer. She regularly delivers training that enables creatives to take their careers to the next level. Alison is the author of Penguin published book, The Freelance Bible and offers many workshops and training programmes to support freelancers.
Sophie Morgan
She is an experienced TV and multi-platform content creator, screenwriter and development consultant with over twenty-years working as award-winning creative director, commissioning editor and BAFTA-nominated producer. Working in the UK and US, she has developed, and exec produced hundreds of hours of TV content including Britain's Next Top Model, RuPaul's Drag Race, London Ink and Jade.
In 2021 she founded multi-platform ideation and development consultancy Pontariva Media with the aim of adding value to production companies, multiplatform content studios and broadcasters like Channel 4 and Sky. They do this by helping them devise more ambitious, omni platform content and find innovative ways to exploit IP, use emerging technology and design new funding models.
She also devises and delivers industry training on topics including Gen AI, agile leadership, industry diversification and best creative practice and runs regular workshops for ScreenSkills and Creative Enterprise as well as the NFTS and Warwick University. She chairs several industry panels for Broadcast's AI summits and is a neurodiversity advocate and mentor. She has written two novels and two screenplays for Sky and the BBC.

Perjit Aujla

Perjit has 13+ years' experience in factual TV as an RTS award-winning Series Producer, an Edit Producer and a former Head of Development. She has won commissions from Channel 4, Channel 5 and worked on programming as diverse as a Joe Wicks series for 4OD to the Bafta-nominated Cbeebies series Maddie's Do You Know.
Based in Leamington Spa, Perjit is a champion of the regions, producing and chairing local events on behalf of Women in Film and Television and RTS Midlands, where she is also on the committee. She has supported diverse off-screen talent via. Creative Access and the Channel 4 Trainee Scheme.

Book now
