BFI Academy 2022 - Apply Now!

Aged 16-19? Passionate about film? Want to work in the film industry?

Applications are open for the Aberdeen BFI Film Academy which will run from September 2022 to January 2023. If you are aged 16-19 years old and are interested in film or want to explore a career in film, then this is the perfect course for you.  

As a student on the BFI Film Academy course, you will gain invaluable experience working alongside industry professionals who are respected practitioners in their field. You will be offered hands-on filmmaking experience which will help you to develop practical knowledge and skills. You'll be able to explore your own creativity and passions in a supportive and dynamic environment. 

The Aberdeen BFI Film Academy is an opportunity to work in teams to write, produce and direct original short films in an industry focused environment. Students will attend Masterclasses with guest professionals during the course to enhance their learning and gain an insight into the realities of working in film. In the past we have had Duncan Cowles (BAFTA award winning documentary filmmaker), Raisah Ahmed (writer/director) and Scott Graham (screenwriter). 

This high-quality course will develop your understanding of key craft areas such screenwriting, directing, cinematography, editing and sound. Participants will be supported through the process of developing and producing a short film which will be screened at the Belmont Filmhouse at the end of the project.  

Films from previous years have been shown at Film Festivals all over the world with Metropolitan Spaghetti (2018) winning the Audience Award at the Film Access Network Scotland (FANS) Film Festival in Glasgow, and Life's A Drag (2019) screening at the prestigious Edinburgh International Film Festival.  

In addition to the practical experience on the course, participants will also secure an NPA in Film and Media at NCQF Level 5 and will become part of a BFI Alumni group which opens additional training opportunities across the UK.  

We are dedicated to making our courses inclusive and accessible to all and welcome applications from all backgrounds and levels of experience. The course runs from September -January 2023 and participants should be aged 16-19.  

For more information contact us at  bfi@shmu.org.uk