RTS Bursary Scheme

RTS Bursary scholars and alumni share how their lives have changed since applying for the scheme, what they have learned about themselves and the industry, and why they think you should apply.

In late June, Fremantle UK hosted the RTS’s annual summer networking session, welcoming past and present RTS Bursary scholars to their London office. Alongside their personal mentors, the attendees connected and exchanged contacts with each other and industry professionals.

One of the core goals of the RTS is to support the television industry in reflecting the exciting and diverse voices of Britain today which starts by changing the industry from the inside, championing and helping talented students to consider the creative industries.

Current and previous ­bursary scholars attended, together with Fremantle representatives, RTS mentors and other leading industry figures.  

RTS bursaries consultant Anne Dawson said that these opportunities were “so important”, because “they give our students a connection to the industry they wouldn’t otherwise have”.  

The RTS runs three pioneering schemes – the TV Production and Journalism Bursary, the Digital Innovation Bursary and the Steve Hewlett Scholarship.

The RTS’ bursary schemes support young people from lower income backgrounds who are interested in working in the television industry, from production or related subjects through to technology roles.

The bursaries support young people from lower-income backgrounds who want to work in television. A total of 39 bursaries have been awarded across TV production and journalism, technology, and the Steve Hewlett scholarship programme.

“Receiving a bursary from the RTS isn’t just representative of the financial backing, but of the opportunity to be a part of an industry-recognised community of like-minded people,” said Evan Taylor, who studies film at the University of Westminster.

The prestigious scheme aims to widen participation in, and access to, the media industry by supporting talented students from lower income backgrounds who are pursuing careers in television. STV, All3 Media and the Steve Hewlett Memorial Fund also provide funds and support for the TV Production/Journalism bursaries.