COURSES

Kahurangi Toi Ātea COURSES OVERVIEW

There are many types of roles on a film or TV set – there is something for every personality and skill set! A production is broken down into five areas or strands: Art, Logistics, Production Technical and Post.
The courses available for the Kahurangi Toi Ātea, 2026 National Screen Industry Training Programme have been highlighted below with an asterisk.
LEVEL 3
ART
  • Costume Assistant *
  • Makeup Assistant *
LOGISTICS
  • Unit / Transport Assist
  • Location Assist
PRODUCTION
  • Runner/Cast Driver/Production Assistant *
  • Publicity Assistant
  • Construction Assistant
  • Greens Assistant
TECHNICAL
  • Camera Trainee
  • Sound Trainee
  • Lighting/Grip/Rigger Assistant *
LEVEL 4
ART
  • Props Assistant/Set Dressing Assistant/Specialist *
PRODUCTION
  • Accounts Clerk
  • Publicity Assistant
TECHNICAL
  • Assistant Digital Imaging Technician
POST-PRODUCTION
  • Assistant Editor *
  • Visual Effects Assistant
LEVEL 5
ART
  • Costume Standby
PRODUCTION
  • Extras Coordinator
  • Safety Assistant
TECHNICAL
  • Volume Stage Assistant
  • Second Camera Assistant
LEVEL 6
PRODUCTION
  • 2nd Assistant Director
  • Production Manager
  • Script Supervisor
  • Unit Manager
TECHNICAL
  • 2nd Unit DOP
  • Production Sound Mixer
 
 

TRAINING STRANDS

ARTS

The Art Department in a film production is responsible for creating the visual look and feel of screen content. This team designs, builds, and decorates sets, as well as selects props, furniture, costuming and other visual elements that bring the story’s world to life. Key roles include the Production DesignerArt DirectorSet DecoratorFood Stylist, Vehicle Wrangler, Animal Wrangler, Props Master, Hair, Makeup & Costume Artists, and Costume Designer, all working to ensure that the film’s aesthetic aligns with the director’s vision. The Art Department plays a crucial role in shaping visual storytelling, from large set pieces to the smallest details in props and décor.

PRODUCTION

The Production Department is the core team responsible for overseeing and coordinating all aspects of a TV or film’s creation, from pre-production to post-production. This department manages logistics, scheduling, budgeting, accounting, and communication, ensuring that everything runs smoothly on set and behind the scenes. Key roles within the production department include the ProducerLine ProducerProduction ManagerProduction Coordinator, Production Secretary, Assistant Director/s (1st AD, 2nd AD, 3rd AD, Set PA), Production Accountant, Assistant Production Accountant/s, Accounts Clerk, and Production Assistants, all of whom work together to keep the project on track, both creatively and operationally.

TECHNICAL

The Technical Department on a film and TV set includes camera, sound, lighting, grip, and rigging teams. They manage all technical aspects of production to ensure high-quality visuals. Camera Operators capture footage and manage framing, Lighting Technicians set up and adjust lighting to achieve the desired look, Sound Operators capture and manage audio, grips handle and position supporting equipment like dollies and cranes, and Riggers install and maintain rigging systems for complex shots. Together, these teams ensure that all technical elements support the director’s vision and contribute to a successful production.

LOGISTICS

The Logistics Department on a film and TV set manages the coordination and movement of resources crucial for the production’s smooth operation. This includes overseeing Transportation logistics, such as arranging crew travel, equipment delivery, on-set vehicle coordination, and also extends to Unit and Catering to feed and maintain the cast/crew. They also handle location logistics by scouting, securing, and preparing filming sites, managing access, and ensuring all location-specific needs are met. Essentially, the Logistics Department ensures that everything and everyone is in the right place at the right time, facilitating seamless operations across all aspects of the production. Key roles in Logistics include Transport Captain, Location Manager, Location Coordinators, Unit Manager, Unit Assistants, Swing Drivers, and Location PAs.

POST-PRODUCTION

The Post-Production Department on a film and TV set manages the overall project that will be delivered to an audience. This includes managing workflow, editing together footage and sound, visual effects, digital imaging, and so much more. They also work with a broad range of specialists to ensure the look and feel of the production is met from colourists to composers. Post-Production is usually completed at the end of the process to ensure all deliverables are met. Key roles in Post-Production include Assistant Editor, Digital Imaging Technician and Visual Effects Assistant.