Want to work in the film and TV industry, but not sure where to start?
As a BFI Film Academy Hub for the North West, we’re here to help young people take their first steps towards a career in screen. Whether you’re interested in the creative, technical or business side of film and television, the BFI Film Academy connects young people aged 16 to 25 with training opportunities, industry connections and career support.
Our BFI Academy Introductory Course 26/27 will give you the opportunity to develop practical filmmaking skills, build your confidence and learn more about the different roles within the film and TV industry.
Throughout the course, you’ll work with industry professionals, take part in hands-on filmmaking activities and develop your own creative ideas. You’ll learn about everything from development and production through to filming, editing and post-production, while also gaining valuable experience and making connections with people working in the industry.
Whether you already know exactly what you want to do or you’re still figuring it out, this course is a chance to explore the industry, develop your skills and take your next step towards a career in screen. See yourself in the credits.
Want to see what last year’s participants created? Watch the film from the 2025/26 BFI Film Academy below.
Applications for the BFI Academy Introductory Course 26/27 are now open
Ready to take your first step into the world of film? Applications are now open, apply now below.
If you have any questions or want to chat to a member of the team before applying, please contact Ciaran.Moss@yourtrustrochdale.co.uk.
Apply hereThe Film Academy takes place on the following dates:
| Date | Sessions | Content |
| Wednesday 7 October 2026 | Introductions (Online) | Meet the Team, Project Overview, Timelines |
| Saturday 10 October 2026 | Session 1 | Intro to Working in Film, Stories, Pitching |
| Saturday 17 October 2026 | BFI Academy Launch | Event at HOME MCR |
| Monday 26 October 2026 | Masterclass 1 | Screenwriting |
| Tuesday 27 October 2026 | Masterclass 2 | Directing |
| Wednesday 28 October 2026 | Masterclass 3 & 4 | Costume Design & Sound Recording |
| Thursday 29 October 2026 | Masterclass 5 & 6 | Cinematography & Production Management |
| Friday 30 October 2026 | Pre-Production | Preparation for Filming |
| Saturday 7 November 2026 | Set Day 1 | Filming |
| Saturday 14 November 2026 | Set Day 2 | Filming |
| Saturday 21 November 2026 | Set Day 3 | Filming |
| Wednesday 2 December 2026 | Film Screening | HOME MCR Screening with Q&A |
| Saturday 5 December 2026 | Field Trip | Versa Studios |
| Christmas Break | ||
| Saturday 9 January 2027 | Masterclass 7 | Editing |
| Saturday 20 February 2027 | Final Celebration | Filming Screenings & Networking (HOME MCR) |
Please note, this course is not open to those studying at university. Our Film Academy is free for participants to attend and travel to and from the workshops will be reimbursed.
BFI Film Academy [North West] is delivered by Your Trust, supported by the UK Government and National Lottery funding.
