ISLANDERS could be offered “a rare chance to join a professional film crew” as part of a Bergerac trainee scheme being launched this summer.
Those behind the reimagined detective drama have said that eight placements will be available on a 13-week programme that will begin on Monday 28 July.
The Bergerac Jersey Trainee Scheme will involve “on-the-job training” across various departments, offering a “practical, hands-on opportunity” to gain industry experience.
Trainees will be paid an “industry standard salary” and, when filming outside of Jersey, shared accommodation and a “small living allowance” will be provided.
Commissioned by BBC-owned broadcaster UKTV, the first season of the long-anticipated reboot – which stars Irish actor Damien Molony in the lead role of Jim Bergerac – launched in February on U and U&DRAMA.
UKTV later revealed that the new six-part series had become the second highest rating programme on U&DRAMA, with 1.8 million consolidated viewers tuning in.
It also contributed to a record-breaking performance on U – helping to achieve “the best week ever” for the streaming platform.
A second series was confirmed earlier this year and is expected to air sometime in 2026.
Announcing the trainee scheme, production partner Westward Studios stated that: “Following the successful return of Bergerac, the production is back for a second series and will be filming across Jersey and Devon from July to October 2025.”
The statement continued: “As part of our ongoing commitment to nurturing local talent, the production is launching the Bergerac Jersey Trainee Scheme, offering eight exciting placements for Jersey residents with a passion for filmmaking.”
Executive producer Brian Constantine added: “We are committed to giving back to the Island through various means, but most importantly by providing opportunities for Jersey-born talent to gain a rare chance to join a professional film crew.
“This scheme is about opening doors and helping the next generation find their way
into the industry.”
Successful applicants will be assigned to one of the following departments:
- Production – The organisational core of the shoot, managing planning, budgeting,
scheduling, and crew coordination. - Locations – Scouting, negotiating, and overseeing the logistical use of locations.
- Design (art department) – Creating the visual world of the story, including set
construction and decoration. - Props – Supporting the art department with set dressing and prop handling.
- Costume – Designing, sourcing, and maintaining wardrobe for cast and extras,
ensuring continuity and style. - Hair and Makeup – Designing and maintaining hair and makeup looks, contributing
to visual continuity. - Assistant Directors (ADs) – Supporting shoot-day operations, cast and crew
communication, and logistics. - Continuity and Script Supervision – Monitoring scene continuity, tracking script
changes, and liaising with the editor. - Camera – Supporting the director of photography with camera operation and
maintenance. - Grip – Managing camera movement using specialist equipment.
- Lighting – Assisting with lighting setups under the gaffer’s guidance.
- Sound – Supporting the sound recordist in mic placement, boom operation, and kit
maintenance.
How to apply…
Applicants must be Jersey residents aged 21 or over and should send a CV and covering letter to info@westwardstudios.co.uk by Friday 27 June 2025.
In the covering letter, applicants should indicate their first, second, and third choice of
departments.
Interviews will be conducted via Zoom during the first two weeks of July.
Selected candidates may also have the opportunity to meet heads of department in person in Jersey during the week commencing 14 July.
Interested Islanders can contact info@westwardstudios.co.uk for further information.
