Meet Harvi – Production Assistant Apprentice

Date

6th September 2024

Author

Jordan Kirby

Breaking into the creative industry can often feel like a daunting task, but there are different paths available. Harvi, a production assistant at Big Button, a UK top 50 video production company, found their way into the world of video production through an apprenticeship. In this interview, Harvi shares their journey, the value of hands-on learning, and how apprenticeships can open doors to exciting opportunities.

From University to Apprenticeship

Harvi’s story begins where many young professionals start: university. Like countless others, he initially chose the traditional academic route, but soon realized that it wasn’t the right fit for him. “I originally went to university, however, I found out that wasn’t right for me.” This turning point led him to explore alternative routes.

Harvi then discovered apprenticeships—a perfect blend of hands-on experience and education. “The idea of getting hands-on experience while also getting paid for it and earning a qualification at the end seemed ideal for me.” This mix of practical learning and the opportunity to avoid student debt made the apprenticeship route particularly attractive.

Life as a Production Assistant Apprentice

Harvi is currently enrolled on a Level 3 Production Assistant apprenticeship, and their role at Big Button provides them with valuable experience across different areas of video production. Their day-to-day tasks range from working on shoots and collaborating with the production team to learning the ins and outs of post-production, including editing software and audio techniques. “I’m learning about different cameras and getting a feel for everything that happens within a production.”

One of the key experiences that helped Harvi transition into this career was a Skills Bootcamp they attended last year. “It kind of sparked my hobby for video production and made me want to learn more about it.” This passion for the craft continues to drive him as they work on diverse projects and hone their skills at Big Button.

The benefits of the Apprenticeship Route

It’s a more direct way to break into an industry compared to traditional academic routes. “You get a feel for the job a lot quicker than if you were studying through a university degree.” The hands-on experience allows apprentices to learn on the job while also getting paid—without the burden of student loans. Another key benefit of an apprenticeship is the opportunity to build real-world skills that are immediately valuable to employers. “You are getting paid for how valuable you are” Harvi points out, that apprenticeships allow individuals to showcase their skills early in their careers while learning and growing within the industry.

Apprenticeships in the Creative Industries

Harvi’s experience on a production assistant apprenticeship at Big Button exemplifies the immense value apprenticeships can offer. For anyone considering a career in video production or the broader creative industries, an apprenticeship provides hands-on learning, direct industry experience, and a pathway to career success.

Whether you’re a company looking to recruit emerging talent or an aspiring professional looking to kick-start your career, an apprenticeship can be a win-win situation. Employers gain eager and dedicated team members who are ready to learn, and apprentices get to fast-track their careers while earning a salary. The production assistant apprenticeship, in particular, is a fantastic way to break into the dynamic world of video production, equipping you with a well-rounded skill set that prepares you for the future.