The Grierson Trust has partnered with National Geographic to become the Headline Industry Sponsor for the prestigious Grierson DocLab: New Entrants scheme, which provides training and work placements to people from a wide range of backgrounds looking to begin careers in factual television. Banijay UK and the Rank Foundation have also renewed their support for the programme, which this year includes work placements at a record number of production companies. National Geographic’s sponsorship will contribute towards the most ambitious year of DocLab training to date.

Now in its 13th year, Grierson DocLab: New Entrants, run in partnership with 25 of the UK’s leading production companies, provides 18-25-year-olds aspiring to enter the industry with a hands-on training, work placements and mentoring programme. DocLab trainees receive bursary-supported work placements within UK production companies where they develop their skills and gain knowledge and industry contacts to become ‘job ready’ for a range of entry-level roles and ultimately a career in factual television.

The Grierson Trust today announced the 12 young people who have been selected to join the latest edition of the Grierson DocLab programme. The trainees are: Alex Fusco, Ben Coxell, Caitlin Neaves, Hollie Hughes, Iris Mitchell, Jamila Pero, Khadijat Ajonbadi, Lori Chappell, Ollie Clay, Safanit Yonas, Sahar Hamidollah, and Serena Soumiya Distelbrink.

The Grierson Trust is committed to working with its partners throughout the industry to identify and develop talent who can bring new stories and perspectives to the documentary form. Grierson DocLab Alumni are currently working across the TV industry in varied roles and at different levels including producing and directing, development, casting, and research, with the continued support of the Trust.

Sylvia Bednarz, Managing Director of the Grierson Trust said: “DocLab isn’t just about opening doors, it’s about dismantling barriers. We’re seeing a new generation of documentary storytellers who reflect the real diversity of the UK, and their voices are already reshaping the industry in meaningful, lasting ways. But this transformation isn't possible without the backing of our industry partners. Their support is vital, not just in offering placements and mentorship, but in championing the belief that bright, passionate talent belongs at the heart of our documentary sector. We’re delighted to welcome National Geographic as Headline Industry Sponsor for DocLab, and incredibly grateful to Banijay UK, the Rank Foundation, and our production company partners who have all come together to support this initiative.”

This partnership is supported across the whole National Geographic content ecosystem, including its Emmy & BAFTA winning Unscripted division, its Oscar winning Documentary Films banner, its global social channels and beyond.

Tom McDonald, Executive Vice President, Global Factual and Unscripted Content, National Geographic added: “For 137 years, National Geographic has supported scientists, explorers, and storytellers in bringing their work to life. That’s why we’re proud to support the next generation of documentary storytellers through our partnership with Grierson DocLab. I’ve seen firsthand the extraordinary impact Grierson DocLab has had over more than a decade on the British television industry— launching some of today's most exciting filmmakers, whose work is helping to create a richer, more inclusive industry. As someone who had no connections to the industry when I began my career, I’ve been utterly wowed by the incredible training DocLab offers. I hope this partnership helps even more young storytellers find their way at a time when breaking into the industry is more challenging than ever.”

Production Company Supporters:

Production companies supporting the New Entrants 2025 programme include new for this year 22 Summers, 72 Films, Candour, Curious Films, Mindhouse Productions, Orchard Studios, Twofour, Ventureland and Purple (as part of Objective Media Group, an All3Media Company). Returning partners include BBC Studios, Blast Films, Box to Box, Dorothy Street Pictures, Dragonfly, The Garden, KEO Films, Lightbox, Minnow Films, Raw TV, Rogan Productions, True North, TwentyTwenty, Wall to Wall, Wonderhood and Passion Pictures.

Anna Hall, Founder and Chief Creative Officer at Candour said: “Candour is absolutely delighted to be working with the Grierson Trust and participating in the DocLab scheme. We are huge admirers of the Grierson Trust and very proud winners of our two Griersons! We have massively benefitted ourselves from employing DocLab graduates over the years and we are very much looking forward to welcoming our trainee!”

Danny Horan, Chief Creative Officer at Blast Films added: “At Blast Films, we believe great stories come from a diversity of voices and lived experiences. We are thrilled to continue our support to the Grierson DocLab and it is our way of helping ensure that underrepresented talent not only gets through the door but thrives.”