The trainees met in the Peak District for the first stage of the programme – a residential combining team-building activities, an introduction to the documentary landscape, industry masterclasses, and group pitching exercises.

The programme was led by trainer Carol Nahra and featured sessions from Dragonfly's Co-Creative Director Will Rowson, The Garden’s Director of Factual Spencer Kelly, and Talent Execs Dee Kahlon and Andrea Bate, plus Grierson alumni Robert Hunter, Head of Development of Renowned Films.

Trainees were given an intensive course in all things docs and factual, and the chance to put their questions to experienced industry professionals.

• “Bundling 12 strangers together for a four-day intensive could go either way, but in the case of last week’s residential it couldn’t have been better. I think the key unexpected benefit was all the group exercises and games we played to kick the week off. Getting to know each other by expressing our fears, likes and personal interests really encouraged us to step out of comfort zones” - Mila Boersma
• “The residential format was intense, but it provided an environment that helped us get to know each other naturally. It also felt like a good introduction to the fast-paced, hands-on, and collaborative nature of working in TV” - Moyenda Lowe
• “The training gave us a unique opportunity to hear from industry leaders about why they love their careers and what motivated their paths in the industry. The sessions gave a comprehensive view of how the industry works and what it takes to succeed” - Katie Wilson

Standout moments included...

• “The speaker that stuck with me the most was Will Rowson from Dragonfly. His talk was insightful and gave me a better understanding of the TV documentary landscape and how shows like Ambulance are pillars in the genre” - Leah Adina
• “I loved the talk we had with Spencer, Dee and Andrea from The Garden - I'm a big fan of all the 24 Hours series and so it was really interesting to learn more about these productions, from fixed rig set-ups to the informed consent of contributors. They did such a great job of explaining key aspects and roles within the industry” - Grace Acum
• “I loved spending time in the evenings, over a delicious dinner, chatting with all the trainees and the Grierson team about factual programming. It was refreshing to be surrounded by others equally passionate about this industry” - Sakura Singh Corke

Working in groups, the trainees developed and presented a pitch, giving them the opportunity to consolidate everything they had learned throughout the week.

• “The pitching exercises were incredibly valuable; I’ve always struggled with pitching and creating pitch decks, so practising in a supportive environment made a big difference. Learning clear formats and effective pitching structures has boosted my confidence and will definitely help me in the future” - Jonah Hall
• “It was refreshing and inspiring to see how different everyone's pitches were and how much fun we had crafting them. The pitches displayed how everyone's skills had developed in such a short amount of time. This was due to the amazing teaching and support from Carol Nahra; it was special to be able to tap into her knowledge and input throughout. Also, the session with Robbie Hunter was so insightful; the pitches helped put his advice into action” - Jennifer Morrison

As the residential drew to a close, the trainees reflected on what they had gained...

• “My biggest learning from the week was just how vast and collaborative the industry really is. I was genuinely fascinated by the range of roles that exist and how each one suits different personalities and skills. I also gained a real appreciation for the resilience the industry demands and the determination needed to keep going, which has only made me even more excited to begin my career in the industry!” - Dominique Baptiste
• “I’ve always worried about my future in the documentary space, however a message throughout the residential was to trust the process more as we navigate our careers. I’ve realised that there’s no single path, and that having a passion for storytelling is what really matters” - Dylan Coundley-Hughes
• “One of the biggest things I took away was the importance of trusting your own voice and ideas when entering the industry. This was something Carol, Yen and Tanya each championed throughout our time away. Whether it’s developing pitches or bringing fresh perspectives during our placements, the residential made me feel excited and more confident about contributing my own ideas moving forward” - Olivia Hughes
• “It was inspiring listening to talks from people working in the industry and highlighted that every career path is different, but as long as you show passion, dedication, and are personable, you’ll find your place in the industry. I left the training course feeling ready to get stuck in” - Lillie Brazie