Working closely with studios and other film-based companies, the Academy will become a centre of excellence in craft and technical skills, providing apprenticeships and professional qualifications for people working in trades such as camera, grips, set crafts within the UK film industry, as well as services for trainees and new entrants.

“This is a fabulous opportunity to ensure our industry stays ahead of the game during a time of major change” Small commented. “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 (Wanted, Children of Men), 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.”

Principal and chief executive of Ealing, Hammersmith & West London College, Paula Whittle, said: “We wholeheartedly welcome Alison’s appointment. She has a wealth of experience and thorough knowledge of the film industry. It is this type of insight that will help to carve a pathway to success for our learners and arm the UK film industry with the quality talent and skills it needs to compete internationally. As well as ensuring that our learners come away with a credible qualification, we are confident that under Alison’s direction the Academy will continue to provide equality of opportunity and remove traditional barriers to learning. Widening access to the talent pool is vital for the College and the Academy alike to fulfil the aim of producing competent, confident and creative leaders of tomorrow.”

The Academy has been made possible through funding received from industry contributions to the Skills Investment Fund (SIF), the voluntary levy on productions filmed in the UK, and is part of Skillset’s ‘A Bigger Future 2’ initiative.