Applications open 26th October 2026
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BFI FILM ACADEMY INTRODUCTORY COURSE
Get your first step into the film and TV industry.
A free hands-on filmmaking course for 16–19 year olds in London.
Are you passionate about film? Curious about what it takes to make a film? Or wondering what jobs actually exist behind the camera?
The BFI Film Academy Introductory Course by SKE is a practical programme designed to give young people an insight into the screen industries, develop real filmmaking skills and connect with professional filmmakers and industry practitioners.
You don’t need to have everything figured out – and you don’t need lots of previous experience. You just need an interest in film, a willingness to get involved and a story you want to tell.
What is the BFI Film Academy?
The BFI Film Academy is a national programme supporting young people aged 16–19 to develop their skills, confidence and understanding of the film and television industry.
As part of the BFI Film Academy London Hub, SKE is delivering a practical Introductory Course where you’ll learn about the industry, meet people working in film and make your own short film as part of a team.
What will you do?
You’ll get a chance to explore different parts of the filmmaking process – from coming up with an idea and planning a production, through to filming, editing and screening your finished work.
Across the course, you’ll explore:
How films are made – from development and pre-production through to production and post-production
Camera and lighting – get hands-on experience with professional filmmaking equipment
Sound and post-production – discover how sound, editing and other technical processes bring a film together
Storytelling and film development – develop ideas and work collaboratively to create a short film
Practical filmmaking – take on roles within a production team and experience what it is like to make a film together
The film and TV industry – understand the different roles and career pathways available across the sector
Industry careers and masterclasses – hear directly from people working in the industry
Sustainability in filmmaking – explore how productions can work more sustainably
Your next steps – build your confidence, identify opportunities and think about where you could go next
You’ll finish the course with a short film you’ve helped create and a better understanding of where your skills and interests could take you.
Course dates:
6th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th , 20th and 27th February 2027 with a online introductory session on the evening of 4th Feb 2027.
Total course time:
35.5 hours of in-person training.
Location:
Brent and Central London. (Some activities may take place at other locations in London.)
Application deadline:
22nd Jan 2027
Cost of course:
Free!
Want to work in the film and TV industry, but not sure where to start?
As the BFI Film Academy Hub for London, we're here to help. Whether you're interested in the creative, technical or business side of film and television, we connect young people aged 16 to 25 with training opportunities, industry connections and career support closer to home.
As a member of your local hub, you'll have access to hands-on introductory film courses, networking opportunities, year-round activities and personalised support to help you build skills, grow your confidence and take your next step towards a career in screen.
BFI Film Academy London is delivered by CTVC supported by the UK Government and National Lottery funding.
Working in partnership
SKE is a proud partner of the BFI Film Academy Hub in London, working alongside our delivery partners CTVC, Film and Video Workshop, and Silver Knight.
This is a London talent development project for 16-19 year olds organised by the BFI Film Academy. Supported by the UK Government and National Lottery funding.