Alison Small named director of Skillset Craft and Technical Skills Academy

Alison Small has been appointed as the inaugural director of the Skillset Craft and Technical Skills Academy.

The new Academy is a collaboration between Skillset and Ealing, Hammersmith & West London College. The centre will focus on craft and technical skills working in areas such as camera, grips and set crafts.

She is the vice chair of Women in Film and TV, and also works as a freelance consultant and project manager in international film and TV production.

Previously, she spent eight years working at the Office of the British Film Commissioner.

Small said: “This is a fabulous opportunity to ensure our industry stays ahead of the game during a time of major change. The Academy gives the very best talent across the UK access to the highest quality of training and a way into the industry. This will ensure the ongoing development of much-needed skills, making sure we can continue to meet the needs of both future domestic and international production, as well as attracting greater levels of inward investment.”

Producer Iain Smith, chair of the Academy’s board and of Skillset’s Film Skills Council, added: “Alison is an imaginative and innovative leader with a great knowledge of how the film industry works throughout the world. Her many years of experience will prove invaluable as she continues to strengthen the relationship between the Academy and the UK film industry.”