December news

We hope you are enjoying the prospect of some much needed and deserved time off. It’s been a year of ups and downs and feels busy one moment and quiet the next. The industry has always been a rollercoaster and it is likely that there will be more of that next year – so make sure the break is a restful and restorative one!

WHAT WE'VE BEEN UP TO

We had a lovely evening with our Talking Point members, mentees and new trainees at our Autumn Networking event in November. Huge thanks to all the HoDs and seniors who came and were so generous with advice and chat! As so many people commented on the night, it really is such a wonderful community of people. 

We have also concluded a programme of One to One sessions for ScreenSkills’ Trainee Finder participants. Hope they put all the advice to use as they come to the end of their time on the scheme….good luck to you all!

If you are looking for a One to One session, details are on the website. You can book into slots for January now.

COMING UP

MENTORING NETWORK - deadline for applications Monday 5th January 17:00This is a great programme for anyone looking to understand what is required to succeed in their role , get lots of advice and guidance and be supported as they progress. It is also a wonderful community of mentors and mentees!

More information on the website.

MANANGING FINANCES with David Thomas – Monday 19th January 19:30 – 20:30

This is always a good one to start the new year with. Managing finances is a huge part of successful freelancing and David not only makes it accessible and reassuring but almost fun! Perfect for anyone who needs to understand how to thrive not survive financially. Open to everyone from trainee to HoD.

More information on the website.

WORKING IN ART DEPT, SET DECORATING & PROPS –  Thursday 29th January 10-12:30

This informal Zoom session is ideal if you are looking for information on the different art department teams, what they all do, how they collaborate and what you need to do to get onto a production.

More information on the website. 

STEPPING UP TO SUPERVISING ART DIRECTOR

Thank you to all those who submitted applications for the Stepping Up To Supervising Art Director programme. It was a very popular and competitive round for this free training – we appreciate the time you took to apply and will be in touch this week.

PETTY CASH BUYING  with The Classic Prop Hire Company  - End Feb 2026

This one day workshop is ideal for anyone considering the PCB role or who has recently moved into it and looking for some additional support. It is also the perfect way to see Classic’s new space!

THINGS WE HAVE BEEN ENJOYING

It was great to see so many TP people involved with the award winning films at the recent BIFA awards – there has never been a more important time to support and celebrate UK independent film. Congratulations to all the nominees and winners. 

It’s definitely mince pie time now (not before December!) and looking forward to our annual “which one is best?” poll…..last year the Waitrose original ones had it….who will take the lead this year? Let us know which one is your favourite so far…..  

Too many good films and tv dramas out there to mention – try and get to the cinema to see them if you can, the exhibition sector needs our help! Look out for our Talking Point Film Club post on socials to see which Christmas film has our nod this year.

INDUSTRY TOP TIP

Rest! Whatever 2026 brings, it will certainly require energy and resilience. Prioritise friends and family and good times; watch the films, walk the walks, read the books and eat the delicious food. Enjoy!

AND FINALLY

Thank you for all your support, hard work and engagement throughout 2025. 

The office will be closed from Friday 19th December and re-open on Monday 5th January. 

We wish you a wonderful break and look forward to seeing you in 2026!