April marks World Autism Acceptance Month.

To mark the occasion this year, we are launching the ‘Pablo Academy’ to offer neurodivergent people work experience here at Paper Owl Films.

Since 2017, we have worked with an entire writing crew and cast on our award-winning CBeebies series Pablo – the story of a boy with autism.

We recognise that neurodivergent minds offer a unique, highly creative approach to animation yet are currently underrepresented in the industry, often finding it hard to get their first break.

The ‘Pablo Academy’ seeks to redress this situation.

Supported by the BFI, the scheme is open to any neurodivergent person over 18 years in the UK who is interested in a career in animation.

Two successful candidates will be offered six-week work placements every year – starting in May/June this year. They will work alongside our production teams either here at the Paper Owl Films’ HQ in Belfast or remotely.

Placements will be paid or unpaid depending on the individual’s circumstances, which will be assessed after the applicant has been appointed.

We have made the recruitment process as accessible as possible – with a How to Apply session happening on Zoom (recorded and transcripted) on 11^th April, plus a simple application form.

We have also partnered with Specialisterne – an international organisation providing guidance on ensuring equal opportunities within the labour market – to ensure each candidate gets the most out of their placement and that our processes and systems are fully accessible to individual needs.

The Pablo Academy is not just about work experience.

We are also guaranteeing each candidate who completes their six-week placement a job interview for an animation role on one of our broadcast productions within 18 months of graduation.

So if you are interested in this opportunity, please email pabloacademy@paperowlfilms.com to register your interest.