ABOUT THE INITIATIVE
At Dawn Star, we believe the film industry can do better for the people behind the camera. Through Behind the Lens, we bring together aspiring talent, emerging professionals and experienced creatives who share our vision for a fairer, more sustainable creative industry.
Working alongside our award-winning producers, our creatives gain opportunities to collaborate on real projects, develop their skills and build lasting industry relationships. From fairer pay and flexible working to a more supportive working environment, we're building a community where talent is valued, creativity is encouraged and better working conditions become the standard, not the exception.
WHO ARE WE SUPPORTING?
NEW CREATIVES
Behind the Lens provides opportunities for aspiring creatives to gain practical, paid experience, develop their skills and discover where their talents can take them. Whether you're just starting out or have yet to gain your first industry credit, we're here to help turn your interest in filmmaking into a career.
GRADUATES
Leaving education and finding a way into the film industry can be challenging. Behind the Lens helps graduates bridge that gap, offering opportunities to build professional experience, develop industry connections and put their skills into practice while taking their first steps towards a sustainable career
EXPERIENCED CREATIVES
We support experienced creatives looking to broaden their skills, take on challenges or progress into senior roles. Through paid opportunities and continued development, the scheme helps you build on your experience, expand your connections and develop a sustainable career in the screen industries.
CAREER CHANGERS & RETURNING PROFESSIONALS
Behind the Lens welcomes people changing careers or returning after parental leave or a career break. Through paid opportunities and support, the scheme helps you transfer skills, rebuild confidence, make meaningful connections and find a route into or back towards work in the screen industries.
About Behind The Lens
Our Mission
Behind the Lens brings together three interconnected pathways designed to support creatives at every stage of their careers. Our career-starter initiative opens doors for 18–25-year-olds with no industry experience through fully paid, entry-level internships on our film production sets, helping tackle regional barriers and youth unemployment.
For those already taking their first steps in the industry, we provide opportunities to develop their portfolios, gain valuable credits and progress towards more senior roles, including heads of department positions. Through tailored training, upskilling and career development, we aim to make progression more accessible for freelancers, graduates and experienced professionals alike.
Across every pathway, we are committed to creating a more inclusive, supportive and sustainable industry. We champion fair working practices, recognise our duty of care to every crew member and strive to ensure that everyone, regardless of experience or position, has the opportunity to grow and thrive.
LET'S MAKE GREAT CONTENT TOGETHER.
Production Assistants
Support the smooth running of film productions by assisting the crew, coordinating equipment and helping with day-to-day set operations. A great opportunity to gain hands-on experience and discover how a professional production works behind the scenes.
Camera / Sound Assistants
Work alongside our camera and sound teams to help capture every moment to a high standard. From preparing equipment to supporting camera setups and audio recording, develop practical technical skills in a real production environment.
Makeup, Hair & Wardrobe
Help create and maintain the look of characters on screen by supporting makeup artists, hairstylists and wardrobe teams. Build practical skills in continuity, preparation and on-set collaboration while helping bring each character to life.
Assistant Producer
Help bring creative ideas to life by supporting production planning, coordinating schedules and communicating with cast and crew. Gain insight into the organisational and creative decisions that keep a production moving from development to delivery.
Assistant Directors
Work closely with the director and production team to help keep filming organised, on schedule and running safely. Support call sheets, coordinate cast and crew movements, and learn how to balance creative priorities with the practical demands of a working set.
Explore some of our Roles
Our Values
Behind the Lens is built on the belief that better filmmaking starts with better working practices. Our values guide how we work, support our creatives and build a more inclusive, sustainable industry where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
01
Safety First
We prioritise the physical and mental wellbeing of every creative, ensuring everyone feels safe, supported and valued.
02
Inclusivity and Respect
We welcome different backgrounds, perspectives and experiences, treating everyone with fairness, dignity and respect.
03
Fair Pay & Practices
We champion fair compensation, transparent expectations and responsible working practices that value every creative's contribution.
04
Personal Growth
We create opportunities to learn, develop skills and build confidence, helping creatives take the next step in their careers.
05
Sustainable Futures
We work towards a healthier, more sustainable industry where creatives can build lasting careers without sacrificing their wellbeing