As the 2026 school year begins, the ENS Louis-Lumière is launching three new work-study programs Programs with the support of ESRA Formation Pro. Future production managers, stage managers, and lighting directors will thus be able to train at one of France’s oldest film schools while working toward a state-recognized professional certification.
How This Partnership Will Change Things for Apprentices
The concept is simple. Apprentices complete their program at ENS Louis-Lumière, alternating between classes at the school and work on film sets or at production companies. To certify their completion of the program, the school relies on the professional certifications offered byESRA Formation Pro, which are registered in the National Directory of Professional Certifications (RNCP).
For apprentices, this is a concrete guarantee: at the end of their year, they can earn a certification recognized by France Compétences, the national body that oversees vocational training and apprenticeships. This is an asset that employers can recognize right from the start of their professional careers.
Three Essential Roles in Film Production
Chaired by Michel Leclerc, the jury brought together recognized talents from all areas of the industry, from the set to the mixing room. Among them were the three Programs s last one year and address a real need in film and audiovisual production, which requires professionals trained for these key positions.
Production Administration (requires a two-year degree). A little-known but essential role, the production manager oversees the financial, accounting, HR, and administrative aspects of a film, from pre-production through post-production.
Production Coordination for Fiction (after two years of post-secondary education). The production coordinator manages the logistics of a film shoot: locations, permits, transportation, and welcoming the crew. The program prepares students to start their careers as production assistants.
Chief Electrician (after high school). On set, the chief electrician sets up the lighting as directed by the director of photography and supervises the lighting crew.
The start dates are spread out over the month of September: the 14th for production administration, the 21st for fiction production management, and the 28th for the chief electrician training program. These programs build on the momentum established by the ENS Louis-Lumière with the MScT in “Extended Cinematography,” launched in 2025 in partnership with École Polytechnique as part of France 2030’s “La Grande Fabrique de l’Image” initiative.
Two schools, one shared ambition for careers in film
On one hand, there isthe ENS Louis-Lumière, a prestigious public school founded in 1926 at the initiative of Louis Lumière and Léon Gaumont. On the other, there is ESRA, which has been training students in the fields of film, sound, and animation since 1972 and counts more than 15,000 alumni working in the industry.
For ESRA Formation Pro, this partnership reinforces a long-held belief: film-related professions can also be learned mid-career and on the job. Its certification programs, offered at campuses in Paris, Nice, and Rennes, are designed for both people seeking a career change and professionals who want to have their skills recognized—as exemplified by the Cinematographer training program.
Full details of the partnership can be found in the official press release (PDF).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of ESRA in the work-study “ Programs ” at ENS Louis-Lumière?
ESRA Formation Pro offers professional certifications registered with the RNCP. Apprentices receive training at ENS Louis-Lumière and can earn a certification recognized by France Compétences.
Which " Programs " are affected?
Three one-year work-study programs Programs , starting in September 2026: production administration, fiction production coordination, and chief electrician.
What level is required to gain admission?
A two-year post-secondary degree for production administration and fiction production management; a high school diploma for training as a chief electrician.
Where can I apply?
Applications are submitted directly to ENS Louis-Lumière via the page for each work-study program.
Does ESRA offer its own professional certification Programs ?
Yes.ESRA Formation Pro offers certification-based “ Programs ” registered with the RNCP at its campuses in Paris, Nice, and Rennes.
Interested in training or changing careers in the audiovisual industry? Discover all of ESRA’s professional Programs s and stay up to date on the school’s latest news.
