FormatLab is an intensive training programme designed to nurture the next generation of entertainment development talent in Scotland. The nine-month programme will offer expert mentoring, top level industry training, several studio visits and a paid placement within a Scottish TV production company.

This is NOT a job in production. Rather than making the shows, your role in Development will be coming up with, shaping, refining and pitching fantastic brand new non-scripted TV formats. Non-scripted shows include Quiz/Game shows, Reality, Makeover, Dating, Competition, Factual Entertainment, Lifestyle shows and lots more.

Previous experience in the television industry is not required as FormatLab seeks to recruit 'ideas people' from a wide variety of sectors and backgrounds. Individuals who work in other sectors of the TV industry and are looking to transition to entertainment development are also encouraged to apply. However, to be eligible you will:

  • Have a demonstrable love of non-scripted television, with a particular passion for game, quiz, talent and/or reality shows.
  • Have a good awareness of the television landscape (ie. knowledge of what's popular at the moment, what has not done so well...)
  • Be an 'ideas person', full of enthusiasm and bubbling with fresh ideas.
  • Be able to participate in and commit to this development training programme for nine months from January 2025.

We are looking for diversity of voice, insights and experience. Be expressive in your application and show us who you are.

TRC strives to be an inclusive organisation committed to equality and fairness for all. If you require support with your application or if you wish to submit a short video application instead, please e-mail lynne.cowie@trcmedia.org.

If you have any questions please check our web page or email: lynne.cowie@trcmedia.org

Please note that FormatLab is aimed at applicants living in Scotland.

The deadline for applications is Monday 21st October (12pm).

Please note you cannot save this application and return to it. We recommend you work on your answers offline and cut and paste into the form when you are ready to complete it.
Personal Information

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* 1. Contact Details

Eligibility

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* 2. Please confirm you have the right to work in the UK.
If you're not sure, you can check the official guidance here: https://www.gov.uk/prove-right-to-work

Employment history
CV Upload

Please upload your CV here.

Your CV should give information on your previous work/ job roles / sectors you have work experience in
**PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR FULL NAME in the file name of your upload**

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* 3. Current or most recent employer:

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* 4. Tell us about your employment history/the types of jobs you've done in the past.

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* 5. Please rate the top three types of programme that you most enjoy (1 being most interested, 5 being least.)

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* 6. We would like to know a bit about you and what content you love to watch. What are your three favourite UNSCRIPTED Entertainment shows on TV (past or present) These can be from anywhere: Netflix, C4, Youtube, iPlayer, whereever you watch content. Please explain why you love these shows - what keeps you watching?

*Please don't tell us about dramas/documentaries/comedies here as that is not what this scheme is for.

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* 7. What was your least favourite Entertainment TV programme that you've watched in the last (approx) 12 months?  Tell us what you did not like about it and why/what, if anything, you would do differently. (Max. 300 words)

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* 8. Tell us about something you have done/written that demonstrates your creativity. (Max.500 words) (Examples might include creating an event, blog, short film, podcast, TV content, music video, social media content, captivating marketing campaign - or something totally different!)

You may also upload examples of your creativity here.
**PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR FULL NAME in the file name of your upload**

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* 9. Why do you want to work in Unscripted TV development, rather than in any other area of TV production (Max. 250 words)

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* 10. Please tick this box if you would like to be added to TRC's mailing list for news of upcoming training programmes, events and workshops.

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* 11. How did you hear about FormatLab?

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FormatLab is funded by:

FormatLab is funded by:

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