BFI Film Academy Short Course
This free, industry-led Short Course is perfect for young people aged 16-19 looking to break into the screen industries. You'll build knowledge, develop practical skills, and explore diverse career pathways in filmmaking and crew roles. Designed to inspire the next generation of filmmakers, these hands-on courses offer valuable insights and set you on the path to a successful career in the industry.
Learn more about all our BFI opportunities hereBreak into film
During this course you will:
- Learn from experts: Gain film theory, industry insights and technical skills through workshops and masterclasses.
- Collaborate: Work in teams to produce professional-standard short films.
- Become a BFI Film Academy alumni: Access further training, funding and industry events.
- Network: Attend Film Festival Industry events and meet film directors and producers.
- Hands-on experience: Work as part of a crew with mentorship from screen industry professionals.
- Understand the industry: Develop a comprehensive understanding of the film industry, its dynamics and various career pathways.
FAQ's
Location: You can choose to apply to one of four locations: Derry~Londonderry or Belfast through Nerve Centre, Belfast through Cinemagic Film & Television Festival and Armagh through the AmmA Centre.
Delivery: The course runs for 10 weeks from September to December each year, usually one evening session per week and occasional Saturdays. Application forms for your chosen location will provide more specific information.
Qualification: Earn an OCN Level 2 qualification in Creative Arts & Digital Technologies.
Apply Now
For BFI Film Academy Short Course delivery partners in your area see below. Click on the location to download the application form.
Nerve Centre
- Derry Londonderry: Deadline Thurs 12 Sept. Contact e.king@nervecentre.org
- Belfast: Deadline Thurs 5 Sept. Contact b.brennan@nervecentre.org
- Armagh: Deadline Thurs 16 Sept. Contact daniel.oreilly@ammacentre.org
Cinemagic applications now closed
Applicants must be aged 16–19 years old, a UK resident, not be enrolled at university when the course starts and not have previously enrolled on a BFI Film Academy course.
Application forms have delivery dates specific to that location. Bursaries are provided to support students in genuine financial need who would be unable to attend without support.
Meet the team
Partners & Funders
BFI Film Academy is delivered by Nerve Centre, AmmA Centre and Cinemagic and is supported by the UK government’s Department for Education, National Lottery, Northern Ireland Screen and Screen Scotland.
