Film and TV drama
Video assist trainee
Also known as: Video playback trainee, Video split trainee
What does a video assist trainee do?
Video assist trainees are an extra pair of eyes and hands for video assist operators (VAOs.) VAOs take the images generated by the film or digital cameras and display them on video monitors so the director and other crew members see exactly what’s been shot. These images are used to check continuity, provide an archive of the filming and show how visual effects might be used.
Trainees arrive at set early, help unload the vans, lay cables and set up the equipment. They help the VAO check the compatibility of the playback systems and test all the equipment.
They make sure batteries are charged and that the footage is backed up on a drive. They might take messages to other departments. They also take over the monitoring for short spells when the VAO is needed to edit the action or is called elsewhere.
What’s a video assist trainee good at?
- Concentration: be alert, have the stamina to pay attention to the shots on the video monitors through long filming days
- Knowledge of video: understand video playback equipment, video and audio cables, wireless video links and the basics of video signals and formats
- Watching film and TV drama: have a passion for the genre and a love of the industry
- Learning by watching and asking: be able to observe what’s happening and ask questions at the appropriate moments
- Reliability: get to set on time and do what’s asked
- Communication: take direction from the VAO and listen to and share information with other members of the team
Tools of the trade
You will build up your kit over time. These items are useful to start with:
- Scissors
- Pens, Sharpies
- Notebook
- Head torch
- Bum bag to put them in
- Waterproof clothing
- Layers or thermals
- Walking boots or wellies
- Multi-tool such as a Swiss Army knife, Gerber or Leatherman
Who does a video assist trainee work with?
Video assist trainees work with the VAOs and video assist assistants.
How do I become a video assist trainee?
A good way to become a video assist trainee is through the ScreenSkills’ Trainee Finder scheme or as a trainee with camera hire companies or video playback companies.
At school or college:
If you want to go to university, take A-levels or Highers in a combination that includes art, art and design (photography) and physics. Or you might want to take a Level 3 vocational qualification. Have a look at what your local college offers in relevant subjects such as:
- OCR Technical Diploma in Digital Media (Moving Image and Audio Production)
- UAL Diploma/Extended Diploma in Creative Media Production and Technology
- OCR Cambridge Technical Diploma in Art and Design (Photography) 
- UAL Applied General Diploma in Art and Design 
- UAL Diploma/Extended Diploma in Art and Design
- T level Media, Broadcast and Production 
- T level Craft and Design 
Get an apprenticeship:
An apprenticeship is a job with training, so it’s a great opportunity to earn while you learn. However, it can be challenging to find jobs as an apprentice with production companies. In England there is a level 4 apprenticeship as a photographer. You might be able to find a job through that standard with an employer in another sector, such as a government department or digital media company. Think about taking that job, learning the core skills of photography and transferring those skills into film and TV drama at a later point.
Before taking any apprenticeship, check what you’ll be learning with your prospective employer and college, so you can be sure it will be giving you the skills you want. Go to Find an apprenticeship to learn how to find apprenticeships in your region or approach companies directly.
Get a degree:
It’s not essential by any means, but if you want a degree, have a look at ScreenSkills’ list of recommended courses in film and TV. We recognise courses with our ScreenSkills Select award where they offer training in the relevant software, dedicated time to building a portfolio and have strong links with the film and TV industries.
Become a trainee:
Apply to be a video assistant trainee through ScreenSkills' Trainee Finder scheme.
Get work with kit companies:
Find camera hire or video playback companies near you or contact video assist operators. Ask if you can do work experience with them. Ask for a job. Handle the kit and build up your knowledge and contacts. See out advice on approaching employers to learn how to do this.
Meet people in the industry:
Go to  ScreenSkills’ events, follow your local film office and any local community arts and media organisations and attend their events. Go to  how to network well for some tips. 
Network online:
Create a LinkedIn profile. See if there’s a Facebook page or other social media group for people making films or videos in your area. Join it and take part. Create a ScreenSkills profile.
Explore ScreenSkills Resources:
ScreenSkills careers information:
The your career hub has a wealth of resources designed to help you start or progress your career.
ScreenSkills e-learning:
ScreenSkills has a suite of  free e-learning modules for those who are over 18 which can improve your knowledge. The  ScreenSkills Passport modules also prepare you as they are essential for some production roles. Some modules are available for those under 18.  For anyone wanting advice about first steps, the  Getting into the screen industries  modules are very useful.  
ScreenSkills skills checklists:  
If you would like more detail about the tasks, responsibilities and skills required for many key roles in film and TV drama, children’s TV and unscripted TV you can look at our  skills checklists. 
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