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Cinema managers urged to develop projectionist skills

Mick Corfield, national official, issued the call at the recent Future Projections' Conference, organised to discuss wide-ranging developments in cinema projection.

Find out more about BECTU's support for cinema staff

Cinema Technology published a comprehensive report on the event written by Jim Slater. The article highlights Mick Corfield's contribution saying:

"BECTU is under no illusion that things can stay the same for projectionists, recognises that the future is inevitably digital, and is striving to find a path via which projectionists can develop their careers into new areas, for the benefit of both projectionists and the cinema industry. BECTU are currently working on a proposed new role profile, discussing what part the projectionist of the future will play in the overall work of the cinema."

The report also highlights some of the suggestions which BECTU is making in the ongoing debate with employers.

 "As well as overseeing the digital projection equipment and its ancillaries, current staff could be trained to carry out many of the servicing tasks that are currently done by hired-in outside contractors. With suitable training the technicians could also look after the growing amount of IT equipment on each site and they would also be trained to look after all the other technical systems in a cinema building."

A further meeting to discuss the future projectionist's role is being hosted by the Cinema Exhibitors Association in February; BECTU has also welcomed the interest shown by industry training body, Skillset, in proposals for additional training to permit current projectionists to keep pace with industry developments.  

To take part in the debate about the projectionists' future role contact Mick Corfield.

BECTU set up a working group to engage with employers on this issue in May 2009. Since that time representatives from more circuits have become involved.  

The union is also making it easier in 2010 for cinema staff working in companies/areas not covered by a recognition agreement to take advantage of BECTU's services.