The Traditional Route into Factual Editing is Broken
- Jun 23
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 1
We’ve been speaking with editors and assistants across factual production, and a common frustration has emerged: the traditional route into editing is broken.
The Problem
The current pathway – post runner → MCR → editor – often fails to equip new entrants with essential editing skills. It keeps them at a distance from edit suites, with limited opportunities to learn or progress.
Facilities typically retain assistants in MCR roles, where they’re valuable – but that makes the step into actual editing unclear and difficult.
Meanwhile, production companies (who hire assistants) aren't always thinking about how to develop them into future editors.
Share your experience with us at our next Branch Meeting for Editors and Assistant Editors on Wednesday the 2nd of July at 7:30pm at Bectu HQ. You can attend in person or online and can sign up below.
What We've Noticed
The current system asks assistants to "pay their dues" for years without gaining relevant editing experience.
Facilities aren't incentivised to develop assistants into editors.
Production companies – the ones who could drive change – aren’t always aware of how assistants can add editorial value, even on tight budgets.
Our Idea: Shift the Focus to Production Companies
We're exploring how we can encourage more production companies to hire and support Assistant Editors (AEs) on their shows, and develop clear principles that demonstrate the value AEs bring. We want to...
Speak to productions already doing this well, and learn from their models.
Create guidance on best practices for using and developing AEs.
Engage directly with production companies to encourage more inclusive and practical assistant roles in future series.
Progress So Far
We have spoken with an Exec on Gold Rush, where AEs are given editorial tasks from day one – mentored by edit producers. It's a standout model worth replicating. We have also lined up a meeting with WorkerBee, who run a training scheme for Salford Uni graduate and gathered feedback from AEs at The Garden to understand their experiences.
Want to get involved or tell us about your experience? Email us at committee@theroughassembly.com or join our private WhatsApp Community for Bectu Members.
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