Third Assistant Director Skills Boost Training (Scotland)

If you’re a Third Assistant Director working in Scotland, you know how demanding the role can be, and how little time you get to pause, reflect, and upskill.

That’s why BECTU Vision is offering a rare opportunity to step away from the high pressure of a live production and into an intensive, practical training experience designed specifically for you.

Introducing the Third AD Skills Boost

This two-day, in-person programme takes place in Glasgow and Dumbarton on Saturdays 9 and 16 August 2025, with an industry networking event on Friday 29 August 2025. The course is entirely free to attend, and applications close at 9am on Wednesday 2 July 2025.

Whether you’re already working as a Third AD or preparing to step into the role from Floor Runner, this programme will help you build confidence and sharpen your skills, especially in the complex and often high-pressure task of setting and directing background action.

This programme is funded by the ScreenSkills High-end Television Fund made up of contributions from high-end TV productions made in the UK in association with Scottish Union Learning, Progressive Broadcast Hire, Screen Scotland and the BFI Skills Cluster Fund.

Who it's for

This programme is open to Scotland-based practitioners, including:

• Established Third ADs
• New Third ADs looking to build confidence across different production scales
• Experienced Floor Runners preparing to step up

We strongly encourage applications from underrepresented groups in the industry, including people from minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds.

What it covers

Course 1: Third AD Theory

Led by experienced ADs Alex McKay and Mark O’Connor, this day will explore script breakdowns, planning and prep, working effectively on set, and best practices for communication within the AD team and wider crew.

This course is supported by Scottish Union Learning with funding from the Scottish Government.

Course 2: Practical Simulation

You’ll work on a real set with scripted scenes, supporting artists, and a camera team to practice directing background action, with time for review and feedback in a supportive environment.

This course is supported by the ScreenSkills High-end TV Skills Fund with contributions from UK high-end TV productions in association with Progressive Broadcast Hire.

Industry Networking

Wrap up the experience by connecting with peers and professionals during an industry networking event supported by Screen Scotland and the BFI Skills Cluster Fund.

How to apply

Apply now by clicking the pink 'Apply Now' button on the right. This will take you to Bectu Vision's application page. 

If you have any questions, access needs for the application process or the training itself, please contact the team at vision@bectu.org.uk

This is your chance to develop your skills, expand your network, and take the next step in your HETV career.

Contact information

Email: vision@bectu.org.uk