BFI Film Academy is a UK-wide flagship programme for underrepresented young people aged 16 to 25 hoping to start a career in the screen industries. Focused on preparing participants for careers in below the line production and wider screen industry occupations, the programme will enable young people to learn new skills and gain continued support.
BFI Film Academy Hubs and BFI Film Academy Training Courses are now open for applications from providers.
BFI Film Academy Training Courses
BFI Film Academy Training Courses will provide an in-depth introduction to a specific occupational field, helping participants prepare for work in and undertake basic training linked to a department or sub-sector of the screen industries. They will equip young people, aged 18 to 22 who are not in full time education, with new skills, knowledge and work to add to their portfolio showcasing their passion and talent in their identified area.
All programme delivery should focus on engaging young people from underrepresented backgrounds and those identified as not in education, employment or training (NEET). with new skills, knowledge and work to add to their portfolio showcasing their passion and talent in their identified area.
Each training course will focus on one of the specialisms below with a single course per specialism, per year, to be delivered across the UK:
- costume
- camera and lighting operation
- sound and sound recording
- set decoration and props
- editing and post-production
- VFX and new technologies
- production management (including PAs, location assistants, ADs and accountants)
- hair, make-up and prosthetics
- film programming, audience development and distribution
- film curation and archiving
- animation
- sustainability and locations
Although the courses will be delivered in a specific location, participants should be recruited from across the UK and each delivery partner should strive to have a national cohort.
Courses provided should include leading industry professionals delivering masterclasses and practical skills training. Within each course, participants should be trained to:
- gain basic technical skills in the respective specialism
- have direct contact with those currently working in the specialism
- be supported to gain a broad understanding of the types of organisations and productions within which each specialism is found
We encourage applications from organisations working in partnership with relevant screen industry companies or bodies to deliver specialist courses and expect at least one course to be delivered in each of the four nations of the UK. We are looking for providers who can deliver courses in areas where film production and exhibition hubs exist, for example, the North of England, the Midlands, South West, South East, East of England, London, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales.
Who can apply
Legally constituted organisations centrally managed in the UK that have:
- demonstrable experience in delivering stimulating and exciting screen-related courses with structured outcomes
- the ability to deliver training courses for young people that will develop knowledge and skills that are relevant to the chosen area of the screen industry
If you’re not sure that you’re eligible for this fund, email filmacademy@bfi.org.uk.
When you can apply
Applications open on 13 November 2025 and close on 28 January 2026.
How to apply
Applicants will need to set up an online account to apply for this fund. You can only apply online after you’ve read the funding guidelines in full. There is an application link in the guidelines.
Get help with your application
We are committed to making our funding accessible to all. If you have access requirements and need some support applying for funding, see Access support for BFI funding applicants.
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