TV companies to help working class get big break into industry

Working class youngsters, unable to break into television because of inadequate salaries for runners and research assistants, are to be offered a lifeline by some of the industry's biggest names.

Working class youngsters, unable to break into television because of inadequate salaries for runners and research assistants, are to be offered a lifeline by some of the industry's biggest names.

Leading television production companies including Endemol, the maker of Big Brother, are to launch a training programme – with bursaries – for young people from poor backgrounds.

Tiger Aspect, makers of the Mr Bean and Harry Enfield programmes, Wark Clements, the production company co-owned by the presenter Kirsty Wark, and RDF, makers of Faking It and Wife Swap, are to offer young people work placements which include getting their rent paid.

The aim is to counter the middle-class "self selection" created by starting salaries as low as £8,000. This means only young people whose parents subsidise them can afford to take up what might be their big break. The scheme is an extension of Television and Young People (TVYP), the educational arm of the Edinburgh International Television Festival.

Anne Mensah, who works in drama commissioning for the BBC and is backing the scheme, said: "You can't do these jobs unless your parents are willing for you to live at home or to support you. That cuts out swathes of people who might be brilliant but can't afford the first leap."

The candidates will be chosen from 150 people aged from 18 to 21 who attend the TVYP festival of workshops and masterclasses which takes place alongside the main Edinburgh Television Festival in August. Anyone who can demonstrate a passion for television will be able to apply through the www.tvyp.com website. Twelve six-month placements, all at typical starting salaries, will be offered with production companies who will also offer training. Eight candidates, chosen by means test, will have their rent paid.