WANTED: The next generation of TV talent!.

The Network is a FREE industry led scheme helps young people kick start their TV careers at the MediaGuardian Edinburgh International Television Festival. Applications now sought via www.mgeitf.co.uk/thenetwork

Do you know anyone who would like a career in television? The Network gives young people the chance to work alongside some of the UK’s best production, marketing and creative teams from the likes of Sky News, MTV, EastEnders and Endemol.

 The Edinburgh Television Festival’s acclaimed scheme, The Network, opens today for applications for its FREE event in Edinburgh in August 2010. Over four days, successful delegates will have the opportunity to meet the best professionals from behind and in front of the camera, listen to talks from senior industry people, get advice from experts, create and produce television. Attendees will come away with new skills, contacts and advice. Attendees must be over 18 years old. No previous experience is needed, just a keen interest in working in television.

Tim Hincks, Chair of the Edinburgh TV Festival Executive Committee and Chief Executive, Endemol UK said today: “Getting a camel through the eye of a needle has long been easier than getting a job in television, but The Network is helping to change that. It is about giving a real leg-up to a fresh and diverse range of new talents”.

Past speakers at The Network have ranged from comedian Russell Howard, Charlie Brooker, Vernon Kay, Sharon Osbourne, Graham Norton, Simon Amstell and Sir Trevor McDonald as well as leading industry figures including the writers of the Inbetweeners, Sky Controller Stuart Murphy, writer Andy Hamilton, Dr Who writer Russell T Davies, crews from MTV News, EastEnders, Emmerdale and BBC Entertainment’s Karl Warner, Jay Hunt and Julian Bellamy.

Applicants should apply online for this FREE event, which this year takes place between 26 and 29 August. No previous experience is necessary; applications are welcome from anyone who has good ideas and an interest in working in television. To find out more about the scheme log on to www.mgeitf.co.uk/thenetwork. Applications close on 16 April 2010.

Delegates who have attended The Network are also given the opportunity to apply for a six month paid work placement at some of the leading TV companies in the UK through The Network at Work programme. Companies taking part include Nickelodeon, Shine, TwoFour Production, Silver River, Endemol and BBC Children’s.

Book your place for the 2010 Festival now

Registration is now open for the 35th annual MediaGuardian Edinburgh International Television Festival. As a delegate, you gain access to three days of over 50 sessions, keynote speeches, masterclasses and social events.

Discounts are available for under 26s and students. For more information and to book your place, visit www.mgeitf.co.uk