News

We’re super proud to celebrate the return of Rivals to Disney+ this month – not just as a major production filming in the West of England, but as a show that genuinely invested in homegrown talent coming through All Set West. 

Produced by Happy Prince (ITV Studios) and based on Dame Jilly Cooper’s iconic novel, the second series of the International Emmy® and BAFTA® award‑winning drama filmed across Bristol and the West Country, with a substantial shoot running from May 2025 to March 2026. Once again, Rivals made its home at The Bottle Yard Studios, alongside locations across the region. 

But behind the cameras, something just as important was happening. 

Opening Doors to the Industry 

We worked closely with the Rivals Season Two production team to support people from underrepresented backgrounds to take their first steps into scripted TV. 

As part of the production, 13 trainees who had completed our Set‑Ready training were offered paid on‑set placements across departments including Art, Assistant Directing, Production Office, Camera, Locations and Sound. 

For many, this was their first ever scripted TV job – a chance to learn on a real set, earn money, gain credits and start building confidence in an industry that can often feel closed‑off to newcomers. 

Learning on a Real Set 

Being part of a production the size of Rivals, gave trainees the opportunity to see first‑hand how a high‑end TV drama comes together, while learning directly from experienced crew working at the top of their craft. 

One of those trainees was Nick, whose placement quickly became something bigger. 

“All Set West proved to be a valuable network and support system at a crucial moment in my career. What began as a short placement following the training quickly became ongoing work.” 

Nick went on to gain seven weeks of professional scripted HETV experience, something that can make a huge difference early in a screen career. 

“I’ve had a truly remarkable experience – learning the ropes from some of the best crew in the industry, while travelling to some of the most iconic locations in the South West.” 

That journey even led to an unforgettable moment: 

“This momentum led to me greeting Her Majesty The Queen during her visit to The Bottle Yard Studios.” 

Why This Matters 

Access to the screen industries shouldn’t depend on who you know or where you live, or whether you can afford to work for free. Opportunities like those provided by Rivals show what’s possible when productions commit to paid placements, proper support and genuine progression. 

For our All Set West trainees, this wasn’t just work experience – it was a foot in the door, a credit on a major show and proof that they can access the industry. 

As Rivals returns to screens around the world, we’re proud that its impact will be felt long after transmission – through the people who got their start on set, right here in the West Country.