WSQ Diploma in Media
(Content Production and Management) - Assistant Director (Synchronous E-Learning)

Career Prospects

Assistant Director, Camera Assistant, Production Assistant, Sound Assistant

Course Modules

1.
Production Planning and Scheduling (Assistant Director)
Production Planning and Scheduling (Assistant Director) (Classroom and Synchronous E-Learning)

This module provides the participants with an understanding of production planning and scheduling, the creative team's vision and motivations, the role and contribution of key departments during filming, and the interdependencies and reporting structures. Participants will also learn about the overall production processes, types of production and genre, technical aspects, and the types of shoot.

At the end of the module, participants will be able to use relevant scheduling tools and software and work around production limitations, including details of shooting locations and any key constraints on budget, resources, and time availability.

Learning Outcomes:

• Review the shooting script to develop a detailed understanding of the script
• Determine the associated production activities required for each scene, by each cast, crew and the type of equipment and other related resources
• Identify the type of production style, technologies, and methods and their corresponding implications on budget, schedule, cast and crew requirements
• Line the script by pulling out elements that affect the budget and schedule
• Review the breakdown sheets and production board or stripboard to ensure requirements are fulfilled
• Develop the entire production or shooting schedule and make changes to ensure that the entire production is aligned with the budgets and timelines

2.
Location Scouting
Location Scouting (Classroom and Synchronous E-Learning)

This module covers creative vision and production purposes, location selection parameters based on script and production requirements, and understanding the production limitations such as constraints on budgets, resources and time availability, and any specific limits on shooting locations. It also involves knowing about key departments' role and contribution during the shoot, interdependencies and reporting structures, health and safety parameters related to locations, legal requirements, insurance clauses, and risk management and the contracting processes.

Learning Outcomes:

• Develop checklists for each type and sequence of locations required by understanding the production needs
• Review the locations shortlist against the production requirements as well as financial and logistical criteria
• Lead final survey of the shortlisted locations to assess the suitability of the locations based on production requirements and constraints
• Ascertain the permissions and licenses required and the related costs
• Analyse location parameters and risk factors to recommend final locations that balance production needs against financial and logistical constraints
• Oversee the process of obtaining various permits and licenses from the local authorities
• Negotiate fees and terms for using the shortlisted location to ensure budget adherence
• Review all the contracts and written agreements prepared for the use of locations
• Advise others on minimising potential risks and contingency arrangements to cover extremes of weather or non- availability of certain locations to minimise delays during production
• Oversee all aspects of production and health and safety of everyone using the location during the shoot

3.
Production Operations (Assistant Director)
Production Operations (Assistant Director) (Classroom and Synchronous E-Learning)

This module covers the budgets, schedules, and desired standards of the production. Participants will learn about the key limitations on budgets, resources, time availability, and detailed technical requirements for different genres and content types. They will also learn about the interlinkage across the various content production stages and the possible factors that typically impact the production schedules. The module will also cover the approval processes for deviations, relevant health and safety guidelines, and the statutory and regulatory compliances.

Learning Outcomes:

• Prepare call sheets for scheduling the cast for the shoots Break-down the production schedule into a daily task list
• Manage the production activities on a day-to-day basis, including coordination with all the creative and technical teams
• Use appropriate techniques to identify production requirements to determine the production schedules
• Identify additional factors which may impact the production schedules but are not apparent from the script
• Provide the director and producer with daily schedules detailing every aspect of production, including delay in timelines and deviation from budgets
• Review paperwork and contracts to ensure all permissions are obtained for the use of content that is subject to copyright law
• Identify special approvals required and guidelines to be followed in exceptional circumstances
• Comply with health and safety regulations in all job tasks

4.
Production Budget Management
Production Budget Management (Classroom and Synchronous E-Learning)

This module will cover the overall production processes and schedules, and the typical value of all budget elements, including capital expenditures, cost of Intellectual Property (IP), technology, and other factors. Participants will learn about the key components of profit and loss accounts and balance sheets. Participants will be trained to plan and control the budget of a production based on the relevant accounting principles. The trainer will also touch on the typical areas of delays, overruns and production risks, forecasting models for cost and revenue streams, and budget management and tracking mechanisms.

Learning Outcomes:

• Review the production schedule and sequence of activities in terms of their cost implications and expenses for each item
• Determine the impact of various production styles and methods on budgets, schedule, cast and crew requirements
• Outline the project details, which may include locations, cast and crew, creative and production teams, and additional costs
• Identify reasons for budgetary overruns and escalate issues to key departments in a coordinated and timely manner
• Propose options for managing future overruns

5.
Camera Operations

This module explains visual storytelling concepts, techniques to capture complex shots, principles of cinematography, and other factors that impact overall visuals and principles of composition and continuity. Participants will learn about focus requirements and camera positions for various types of cameras, types of specialty camera equipment and accessories, budgetary guidelines of the production and production safety guidelines and protocols.

Learning Outcomes:

• Assess requirements in visual briefs to determine camera equipment and accessories needed for production
• Facilitate collaboration with production teams to capture shots required for each scene
• Develop detailed shot plans to outline required camera angles, movements, and parameters needed for each scene
• Oversee the set-up and preparation process to ensure alignment to production and technical plans
• Review footage to ensure that shots are framed in a manner that achieves continuity and seamless transition between shots
• Develop alternative plans and solutions to resolve anticipated technical issues that may occur during production
• Adapt parameters, camera techniques, and movements to enhance overall visual effects and outputs
• Provide technical guidance to production teams to capture complex shots that require the use of mounting equipment

6.
Direction (Assistant Director)

This module covers the production element requirement based on the project details by breaking down the script, production schedules, formats of screen grammar, shot breakdown, shot design, scene design, and the Creative and technical requirements of a production.

Participants will also learn the technical, budget, and time constraints applicable, the organisational structure of the production and the roles and functions of every crew member, camera control and operations, and continuity principles.

At the end of the module, participants will understand the content production and workflows concerning cinematography, celluloid and digital, audiography, location sync recording, dubbing, track laying, sound mixing, and music recording and arrangement, and editing, synchronising, splicing, stitching, and structuring.

Learning Outcomes:

• Break down the script to identify all production elements for each scene
• Document the day-wise shoot schedule, including the scenes and shots to be covered, type of shoot, and key characteristics for each shoot
• Facilitate the team to develop shoot sequences based on the breakdown of the script into a storyboard
• Direct secondary cast and extras on set to support the production
• Supervise the cast and crew on set to ensure that the production progresses according to the schedule and aligned with the creative vision
• Explain the details of any shot such as camera angle, stance, motion in the scene, usage of props to the actors
• Foresee technical issues that may arise during production and post-production and recommend options to modify the script and resolve issues proactively
• Follow the plan closely to ensure continuity during production

7.
Crew Selection (Assistant Director)
Crew Selection (Assistant Director) (Classroom and Synchronous E-Learning)

This module covers the pre-production and post-production requirements, types of production and genre, the technical aspects of production, and shoot types. Participants will also learn about the geography and location, types of equipment to be operated, statutory guidelines and legislation for recruitments, policies for fair employment practices, and the relevant health and safety laws and procedures.

Learning Outcomes:

• Identify the requirements for the crew accurately from the script, budget, schedule, and other relevant factors associated with different project stages
• Shortlist profiles and conduct interviews and practical tests to establish a fit for each crew
• Assess the shortlisted crew as per the requirements
• Network at the relevant industry and professional forums to identify the best-in-class crew required
• Share feedback with the production and creative team
• Negotiate the terms of payments and scope of contracts with the selected production crew
• Review the paperwork and contract prepared for the selected crew

Mode of Training

In-person and/or Online

Assessment

• All modules will conclude with a compulsory assessment component.
• Assessments may include role plays, quizzes, assignments, projects, and written examinations.
• Participants need to achieve at least 75% attendance for each module before they are allowed to sit for the assessment.

Certification

Completion of all the required modules will qualify candidates for the WSQ Diploma in Media (Content Production and Management) under the SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) Skills Framework for Media.

Participants will also receive a Statement of Attainment issued by SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) for each module completed.

Trainers

Foo Piao Xu (Fu Biaoxu)
Piao Xu has more than 18 years of experience in television and film after graduating from the National University of Singapore. She has enjoyed considerable success working across the whole spectrum of television production, from conceptualising new ideas to content creation and distribution. She has worked with numerous directors, writers, producers, above-the-line and below-the-line production resource staff, and clients in the media industry.

She is the Executive Producer (in charge of production) of 'Fighting Spiders'. This English drama series won the Special Award for Best Mini-Series at the Seoul Drama International Drama Awards 2009. She is also the Producer of 80s Rewind, the situational comedy that won the Silver World Medal (situational comedy) in the New York Festivals International TV Programming and Promotion Awards 2009.

Apart from live-action productions, Piao Xu has worked on International Co-productions for animation shows. She also served as Post-producer on reality shows like The Apartment. She helmed the role of Producer Director at Mankind Creative Pte Ltd, which specialised in corporate and industry videos.

Loh Lek San, Justin
Justin joined Interfilm Production as an audio engineer in 1996 following his graduation from SAE (School of Audio Engineer) in the same year. Due to his outstanding performance, he was given the opportunity to be trained as a studio cameraman.

In 1998, he started his first drama under the guidance of a Hong Kong Director & has worked on numerous drama serials with Mediacorp since then. Being an official cameraman for EMI & Starhub has created opportunities for him to meet many people who recognize his strength. Justin has worked with Broadcasters like AXN, Discovery, Companies like Cisco Systems, DHL, EMI, Starhub, Singapore Polytechnic & many more.

Being a certified ACTA trainer, he accepted the offer of a part-time lecturer in LASALLE College of the Arts, Puttnam School of Film, to impart his knowledge & skills to the younger generation.

He also owns a state of the art new audio recording eng mixer - Zaxcom Nomad 12. It’s a 12 audio tracks recorder with a time code generator and the revolutionary ZaxNet interface. It’s a new cutting edge technology that even Hollywood finest recordists are slowly making the transition to this system. With wireless receiver amp n shark fins, on the ever-popular Lectrosonics SRa wireless SMQV sets, Justin is fully equipped for a full feature film shoot around the region.

David Suen (Sng Choon Hui)
David is a working director in the local media scene for over 20 years. Being a freelancer, he has garnered extensive experience in many broadcast genres, helping numerous production houses direct their TV programmes locally and internationally with over 50 dramas and documentaries, 15 commercials, 66 corporate & event videos, and counting.

He is also a MOE certified ACTA trainer and an adjunct lecturer, having taught in over 50 secondary and tertiary education schools.

List of Trainers

Course Duration and Schedule

There are 2 intakes per year: January and July

Part-Time Programme (12 months)

• Next Intake: 7 January 2025 (Calendar)
• Registration Closing Date: 30 December 2024

Time

• Weekdays: Twice a week from 7:00pm to 10:00pm
• Saturdays: Occasionally from 9:00am to 6:00pm

Venue

• In-Person Classes: 1 Stars Avenue, Mediacorp Campus, Singapore 138507
• Online Classes: Participants will be provided with the log-in links

Fees for WSQ Diploma in Media (Content Production and Management) - Assistant Director & WSQ Diploma in Media (Content Production and Management) - Assistant Director (Synchronous E-Learning)

Course fee to be paid by instalments. Details will be provided in the Student Contract.

Full Course Fee, including 9% GST: S$21,146.00

Course Fee with SkillsFuture Funding:

SkillsFuture Funding (Baseline)¹ for Singapore Citizens, Permanent Residents and Long-Term Visit Pass Plus (LTVP+) Holders

SkillsFuture Mid-Career Enhanced Subsidy¹ for Singapore Citizens aged 40 years old and Above

SkillsFuture Enhanced Training Support for SMEs¹ for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs)

¹SkillsFuture Funding: Terms and Conditions

²As per SSG Policy, GST payable is calculated based on prevailing GST rate after the baseline funding subsidy of 70%.

³Administrative Fees include Annual Medical Insurance Premium, Annual NLB Membership Fee, ICA Student Pass Application Fee, Lab Fee and SMA Student Access Card.

Fees for (SCTP) WSQ Diploma in Media (Content Production and Management) - Assistant Director & (SCTP) WSQ Diploma in Media (Content Production and Management) - Assistant Director (Synchronous E-Learning)

Course fee to be paid by instalments. Details will be provided in the Student Contract.

Full Course Fee, including 9% GST: S$21,146.00

Course Fee with SkillsFuture Funding:

SkillsFuture Funding (Baseline)¹ for Singapore Citizens

SkillsFuture Mid-Career Enhanced Subsidy¹ for Singapore Citizens aged 40 years old and Above

SkillsFuture Additional Funding Support¹ for Singapore Citizens who meet one of following eligibility criteria:
- Long-term unemployed individuals (unemployed for six months or more); or
- Individuals in need of financial assistance – ComCare, Short-to-Medium Term Assistance (SMTA) recipients or Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) recipients; or
- Persons with Disabilities

¹SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme (SCTP): Terms and Conditions

²As per SSG Policy, GST payable is calculated based on prevailing GST rate after the baseline funding subsidy of 70%.

³Administrative Fees include Annual Medical Insurance Premium, Annual NLB Membership Fee, ICA Student Pass Application Fee, Lab Fee and SMA Student Access Card.

Modes of Payment

1. All application payments, course fees, and miscellaneous fees should be made only to Singapore Media Academy Private Limited.
2. A payment receipt can be provided to prospective students on request. Please allow 3 (three) working days after we have verified your payment. Please note that the late payment penalty of S$54.50 will be imposed for payment received after the stipulated due date as stated in the Student Contract.
3. We accept the following methods of payment. Click here for the details: https://diploma.mediaacademy.sg/faq

• Internet Banking / Telegraphic Transfer
• PayNow (UEN)
• Credit Card Payment
• SkillsFuture Credit
• Post-Secondary Education Account (PSEA)

Minimum Entry Requirements

• Minimum Age: 18
• Male Singaporean applicants must have completed National Service.
• Academic Requirement: Obtain Pass Grade in GCE N-Level subjects including English (or IELTS overall band score 5 and above or equivalent) and 2 other subjects or equivalent
• Applicants who do not meet the minimum requirements may still apply and will be considered based on:
  • At least 1 year working experience in any industry; and/or
  • Oral interview or evaluation test by Singapore Media Academy to determine suitability for the course
• Applicants may be called for interview at the discretion of Singapore Media Academy.