Training Bursary Scheme renamed to honour industry legend Dave Keighley
7th September 2025 – The Production Services Association (PSA), the UK's largest trade association for live production professionals, today announced that it is renaming its Training Bursary Scheme to the “Dave Keighley Bursary”, in honour of the former chairman, who passed away earlier this year.
Dave Keighley was one of the founding members, and his support included his most recent role as Chairman, which he served in from 2020 until his retirement due to ill health in May 2024. The renaming of the bursary recognises his extraordinary contributions within the live production sector.
Launched in January 2025, the scheme addresses critical skills shortages in the live events industry by supporting PSA members with essential training costs. Developed in collaboration with Precision Broking Ltd and AXA Insurance, the scheme covers 25% of course costs up to a maximum of £250 per application for training programmes relevant to the production and live events industry.
Liz Madden, PSA Co-Chair, said: "Renaming our training bursary scheme to honour Dave is a fitting tribute to someone who dedicated his career to advancing our industry. Dave understood that investing in people and their skills was essential for the future of live production. This bursary will continue his legacy of nurturing talent and ensuring the next generation has access to the training they need to excel."
Tom Rees, PSA Co-Chair, commented: "Dave was one of the key people instrumental in creating the PSA and his vision for supporting industry professionals continues through initiatives like this bursary. He believed passionately in the power of education and professional development to elevate our entire sector. The Dave Keighley Bursary will help remove barriers to training and ensure Dave's commitment to excellence lives on in the careers of countless industry professionals."
The Dave Keighley Bursary represents the PSA's ongoing commitment to addressing the skills shortage that continues to challenge the live events industry. By covering part of training costs for members, the scheme removes financial barriers that might prevent individuals from accessing essential skills development opportunities.
PSA members consistently identified access to training opportunities as a priority, and the association responded by establishing this bursary exclusively for its membership of over 2,500 individuals and companies involved in live production.
PSA members can apply for funding through the association's website at www.psa.org.uk/pages/training-bursary.
