Looking for help on getting hands on technical experience

First off I apologize if this is the wrong place for this.

Basically I'm a wannabe writer/director. I've been on a handful of short courses which by and large were borderline pointless. I'm desperate to get some hands on technical experience with cameras and lighting. I want to write and direct but id like to be able to hold a basic conversation with team members like the DP so Im able to get across what I require. Ive read book after book on the varying subjects and im currently rereading the main ones again so I am soaking up knowledge but thats nothing without hands on experience as far as im concerned.

My plan is to find some clubs or regular workshops where I can learn basics and get myself runner gigs on short films and as my knowledge improves hopefully get more important roles where I can get greater experience. I'm hoping that by early next year I will at least have some decent experience and then ill bite the bullet and make my own short.

My problem is finding gigs and workshops/clubs. I have asked around and searched online but it is so hard to find anything decent in amongst all the drivel.

I am a full time game developer so quitting and starting as a tea boy in a tv company is not an option.

I live in Kent but work in London in the UK.

If anyone has any info on places or people they know that would be fantastic but even if you just know where to look that would greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance for any help