Film and audio-visual production stand out as a particular opportunity. As the sector increasingly embraces ‘createch’ (AI, machine learning and immersive technology) its skills needs are converging with those of Digital and Technology, alongside the traditional craft skills (lighting, costume, production management, sound, editing and post-production) that remain in short supply High levels of self-employment also expose gaps in enterprise skills, while persistent challenges include limited links with industry, too few work-based learning opportunities, and insufficient access to live project experience for students.
The creative sector is a nationally recognised growth engine, and has been a long-standing priority across both of our former Local Skills Improvement Plans. Across the newly integrated Hampshire and Solent region, the sector supports an estimated 42,600 jobs – this number likely higher still, given its large freelance and micro-business base.
Creative Network South Film Skills Needs in the Surrey EM3 & Solent Areas 2026
Download the 2026 report
Creative Sector Solent Deep Dive Evidence Report June2023
Download the 2023 report
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