Empowering the Next Generation: Orchard Crew and Digital Orchard Launch Access 2026 Trainee Schemes
The future of the UK film and television industry is looking brighter as Orchard Crew, alongside sister company Digital Orchard, officially kicks off the Access: 2026-27 trainee programme. To celebrate the launch, the new cohorts were welcomed to our headquarters in Chalfont St Giles for their first technical workshop.

Meeting the New Cohorts

This year’s programme sees a talented group of individuals ready to make their mark.

Representing Orchard Crew’s Camera Trainees are:

Susannah Ireland

Hassan Gray

Sam Becker

Zeze Ibarra

Campbell Murdoch

April List

Joining them from Digital Orchard’s DIT & Video Trainee stream are:

Maddy Taibo-Smith

James Raine

Jake Ward Monsen

Lorna Le-Brun

Sami Taylor-Ward

A Foundation of Inclusion and Excellence

First established in 2024 by Olivia Fitzsimons, the trainee scheme was designed to support emerging talent as they take their first steps into the industry. Rooted in core values of representation and accessibility, the programme specifically aids those who have faced barriers to entry, with a particular focus on diversifying the camera department.

The scheme is built on a "set ready" philosophy. Through practical workshops and training sessions, trainees gain the hands-on skills required to work on high-end productions alongside a roster of highly skilled UK technicians. Beyond the technical, both Orchard Crew and Digital Orchard provide ongoing mentorship and guidance on industry essentials like rates and negotiation.

Insights from the Frontline

For many trainees, this represents a pivotal career milestone. Susannah Ireland, Orchard Crew Camera Trainee, shared her excitement:

"I’m really looking forward to being a part of this fantastic and unique opportunity to be a part of Orchard Crew’s Access scheme. I believe that combination of in-person workshops, mentorship and practical experience on set is invaluable and will set me up with a solid career foundation to progress through the camera department."

Maddy Taibo-Smith, Digital Orchard Trainee, added:

"With Digital Orchard’s vast array of projects, as well as 15 years in the film industry, it felt like they would be the ultimate step into helping further my career and knowledge within the Video and DIT departments."

A Proven Track Record

Now in its second year for the Camera Trainee scheme and its third for the DIT and Video scheme, the impact of the programme is undeniable.

Michael Scanlon, a member of the Orchard Crew Access 2025 Camera cohort, reflected on his journey:

"Joining Orchard Crew's access 2025 scheme has been one of the best developments in my trainee career. Let alone the opportunities that they offer, the support and social network have been invaluable in navigating the industry... I’ve been lucky enough to trainee on some incredible HETV and features and cannot wait for more."

The success is also evident in recent promotions. We are delighted to congratulate former Access Trainees Tommy Shackles and Monika Sak, who have moved up to DIT Assistant roles, and Mickey Wilk, who is now progressing as a Video Assistant.

Looking Ahead

The opening workshop at the Chalfont St Giles HQ wasn’t all technical, it included a full site tour, a deep dive into on-set etiquette, and the traditional Fish Finger Friday lunch, a staple of the Digital Orchard culture.

As the year progresses, Orchard Crew and Digital Orchard look forward to delivering further workshops and providing the unwavering support these trainees need to thrive in their new careers.

Check out our trainees and find out more about our scheme here