The second series of Dept. Q is set to begin filming in Edinburgh this July, with production based at FirstStage Studios in Leith.
To coincide with filming, the “Dept. Q Training Programme” has been launched, offering paid, hands-on traineeships for up to 20 new entrants across a range of departments.
The show, created by Scott Frank and based on the bestselling novels by Nordic crime writer Jussi Adler-Olsen, previously filmed across Edinburgh and East Lothian.
The latest update, reported by What’s on Netflix and Production Weekly, marks a major step forward for the detective thriller following its official renewal in August 2025.
Season two had initially been expected to begin production in spring 2026, but the schedule has now shifted to July.
Key cast members confirmed to return include Matthew Goode as Detective Chief Inspector Carl Morck, Alexej Manvelov as Akram, Leah Byrne as Rose, and Jamie Sives as Hardy.
Creator Scott Frank is also set to return as director for the second season.
Supported by Screen Scotland, Sony Pictures Television and Netflix, the initiative aims to give participants real-world experience on a high-end production.
Trainee roles are available across areas including art, camera, costume, lighting, locations, production, sound, visual effects and post-production.
Placements will last around five to six months, depending on the role.
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Applicants must be aged 18 or over, eligible to work in the UK and normally resident in Scotland. While no formal qualifications are required, a basic understanding of the film and television industry is preferred.
Trainees will be paid £750 per week, including holiday pay. The placements are fixed-term and do not guarantee employment beyond the traineeship.
However, the programme is designed to equip participants with the skills and experience needed for long-term freelance careers in Scotland’s screen sector.
The deadline for applications is 9am on Wednesday, April 29 2026.
Interviews are expected to begin in early May, with successful applicants due to start later that month.
Further information and application details are available via Screen Scotland.
