DreamBIG!3 Trainee lands dream role
Holly-Jasmine Kilvington joins BBC Studio's Kids and Family Team
Halfway Through My Dream Role at BBC Kids & Family
I'm halfway through my six-month ScreenSkills-funded placement with BBC Kids & Family, and it's been a whirlwind of learning and creativity that has exceeded my expectations.
DreamBig Bootcamp: Foundations of TV Production.
My journey began with the Dream Big TV Bootcamp, a weeklong intensive hosted by thinkBIGGER! in collaboration with ScreenSkills. Led by industry experts, this bootcamp was a crash course in TV production, turning our enthusiasm into essential industry skills. I felt incredibly fortunate to learn from those who have shaped the shows we grew up with.
Throughout the week, we explored every aspect of television production, from team dynamics to the behind-the-scenes processes that create a successful show. We delved into career paths in Children’s TV and learned about critical topics like child licensing, chaperoning, and safeguarding. Understanding these responsibilities is vital for creating content for younger audiences. Additionally, we covered health and safety essentials, emphasizing the importance of a secure production environment. I can’t recommend DreamBig enough to anyone interested in a TV career. This bootcamp provides a wealth of knowledge and invaluable connections, setting you up for success in the industry.
From Bootcamp to BBC
After the bootcamp, I joined the production team in Edinburgh for the CBeebies Panto: Beauty and the Beast. As a production runner, I experienced the magic of transforming the set into a captivating world for children. Recently, I’ve been working with the Blue Peter team as a production coordinator, presenter liaison, and PA to the Editor. This has been a unique opportunity to dive into the fast-paced world of one of television's most iconic shows. Blue Peter has inspired generations of kids to explore and create, and being behind the scenes of such a legacy is a true honor.
As the production coordinator, I manage the logistics that make each show possible. My days are filled with organising meetings, coordinating schedules, and booking travel for cast and crew. It requires balancing many moving parts, and no two days are the same. One moment, I might be arranging logistics for a live segment, the next I’m troubleshooting scheduling conflicts to support our team’s creative vision. I love this role because it demands adaptability and problem-solving. With so many intersecting tasks, unexpected challenges arise constantly. Whether it's a last-minute change to the production plan or sourcing a new prop, I enjoy jumping in, finding solutions, and keeping the momentum going.
Another key aspect of my role is serving as the presenter liaison. This means I coordinate everything our presenters need to shine on set. Working with beloved presenters, I ensure they have scripts, schedule updates, and any other materials needed for their segments. This part of the job has been both fun and insightful. As the link between presenters and the production team, I help them engage their audience in the classic, dynamic Blue Peter style. Whether they’re doing crafts, exploring wildlife, or tackling outdoor challenges, I make sure they are fully prepared to inspire viewers.
Every day at Blue Peter brings new challenges, making this role incredibly rewarding. I work with a passionate team, each member dedicated to creating fun, informative, and impactful segments. The thrill of seeing a segment come together, handling logistics for a shoot, or problem-solving on the fly has given me invaluable hands-on experience.Being part of Blue Peter has been more than just a placement; it’s a masterclass in teamwork, adaptability, and storytelling. I’m excited to see what the next few months bring, knowing this experience will shape my career in TV in unforgettable ways.
Looking Ahead: Exciting Challenges Await
As I reach the halfway point in my placement, I’m amazed at how much I’ve learned. Each day at BBC Kids & Family presents new challenges and opportunities. The foundation from the Dream Big Bootcamp has been instrumental, and I’m eager for the next three months.I encourage anyone dreaming of a TV career to seize opportunities like this. With the support and guidance I’ve received, I’m more excited than ever to continue learning and contributing to shows that make a difference for young audiences everywhere.
