Opportunities for Young People in the Film Industry: BFI Film Academy Hubs
Young people aged 16–25 across the UK now have an exciting opportunity to develop skills in filmmaking, storytelling, and digital creativity through the BFI Film Academy Hubs. These programmes are delivered by regional partners and offer hands‑on training, industry insight, and a pathway into the world of film and media.
Milton Keynes is part of the South East Hub, delivered by Screen South. This means that young people from Milton Keynes, Dunstable, Luton, Bedfordshire, and surrounding areas need to apply to the South East Hub to take part.
What is the BFI Film Academy?
The BFI Film Academy is a national programme designed to help young people explore careers in film, gain practical experience, and build confidence in creative skills. It is open to anyone aged 16–25, regardless of experience. Many participants join with no previous filmmaking background.
The programme is highly practical, supportive, and accessible — making it a great opportunity for young people, including those from refugee or migrant backgrounds.
Programme Structure
Most regional academies follow a similar format:
Start: October
End: December or January
Duration: Around 10–12 weeks
Sessions: Weekly (usually weekends)
Weekly Commitment
Participants typically attend:
One full day per week (Saturday or Sunday)
Occasional evening online sessions
A few intensive days during half‑term or holidays
A final film shoot weekend
Total time commitment is usually 40–60 hours across the whole programme — manageable alongside school, college, or work.
What Will Participants Learn?
The programme offers a wide range of creative and technical skills, including:
Filmmaking workshops
Directing, editing, and cinematography training
Masterclasses with industry professionals
Teamwork on a short film
Production planning and story development
Hands‑on camera and sound work
Editing sessions
A final screening of the completed film
It’s practical, inspiring, and a lot of fun — a chance to meet new people, build confidence, and explore creative careers.
Costs and Bursaries
The BFI Film Academy is heavily subsidised to ensure accessibility.
Costs
Participation fee: £25 (one‑off payment)
Travel: £15–£35 per session (depending on location within the region)
Food: £5–£10 per day (some academies provide lunch)
Accommodation: Only required for multi‑day residential workshops; not all academies include this.
Bursaries Available
Many students can access bursaries that cover the £25 participation fee, all travel costs, food, accommodation (if needed), accessibility support.
For young people from low‑income families, refugee backgrounds, or those facing financial barriers, the programme can become completely free.
A Ukrainian young person is very likely to qualify, but eligibility should be confirmed directly with the local hub.
How to Apply
Find your local hub https://www.bfi.org.uk/bfi-film-academy/bfi-film-academy-hubs
If you are from Milton Keynes, visit the South East Hub (Screen South) website: https://screensouth.org/bfi-film-academy-se/
We encourage young people to:
Check upcoming programme dates
Read the application guidance
Contact the hub for bursary information
Apply early, as places are limited
This is a valuable opportunity for young people aged 16–25, and we encourage all interested young people to take part in the programme.
