BFI Film Academy North West
Delivered by HOME supported by the UK Government and National Lottery Funding
What is the BFI Film Academy?
BFI Film Academy is a free, UK-wide training programme for 16-25 year olds looking to get started in the film and TV industry. It offers a hands-on, collaborative filmmaking experience, with a strong focus on developing technical and transferable skills.
What is the BFI Film Academy North West?
As the BFI Film Academy Hub for the North West, HOME provides a welcoming, supportive community for young people aged 16–25 who are passionate about film and TV and interested in exploring opportunities in the screen industries. Through year-round activities, access to industry professionals and ongoing career support, the Hub helps young people build skills, confidence and valuable connections.
We welcome young people from across the North West, whether they’re attending a school, youth group, college or university, or simply enthusiastic about film and TV and keen to find out more. The Hub aims to help young people from all backgrounds discover opportunities and take their first steps towards a career in the screen industries.
As part of a network of BFI Film Academy Hubs delivered across the UK, HOME provides opportunities for young people to develop their interests, connect with the industry and access support as they consider their next steps.
Register with the hub below, to hear about upcoming opportunities, events and activity across the region.
Monthly online sessions
Join us online each month for masterclasses, workshops and conversations with people working across film and TV.
Sessions will cover the things that can make a real difference when you’re starting out – from finding your first opportunities and building a strong CV to networking, freelancing, managing your finances and understanding how the industry works.
They’re also a chance to ask questions, hear directly from industry professionals and stay connected with the wider BFI Film Academy community.
Upcoming Online Masterclasses
| Date | Time | Session |
|---|---|---|
| 21/10/2026 | 19:30-20:30 |
The range of roles available in the screen industries |
| 11/11/2026 | 19:30-20:30 |
Environmental sustainability on set |
| 09/12/2027 | 19:30-20:30 | Mental health & wellbeing |
| 13/01/2027 | 19:30-20:30 | CV workshops and portfolio building |
| 10/03/2027 | 19:30-20:30 | The skills and capabilities needed to be a successful freelancer |
Register with the Hub (using the form above) to receive access details for our online masterclasses, as well as updates on upcoming events and opportunities across the North West.
BFI Film Academy Introductory Courses
BFI Film Academy Introductory Courses are for young people aged 16–19, or up to 25 if you have an EHCP, who want to explore what a future in film could look like.
You’ll get hands-on experience across different areas of filmmaking, including screenwriting, cinematography, sound, directing, production and editing, while learning directly from people working in the industry. Take a look at the delivery partners below to find a course in your area.
Meet our delivery partners across the North West
HOME - Manchester
Delivered by HOME, BFI Film Academy North West provides 16-25 year olds who are passionate about film with the opportunity to work with industry professionals and learn about every stage of filmmaking, from commissioning and production to post-production, distribution and more. Find Out More
Aunty Social - Blackpool
Touchstones - Rochdale
Touchstones is Rochdale’s premier arts and heritage venue situated in a Grade 2 listed building in the heart of Rochdale. Currently undergoing a refurbishment, the new revitalised space will reflect and celebrate creativity in Rochdale.
We are passionate about working with local people, coming together with new and diverse communities as equal creative partners on the creation of new artwork, the curation of public programmes and the research, interpretation and growth of our collections.
Our aim to be more relevant in the lives of local people, harnessing art to strengthen our communities, improve our health and wellbeing and bring us all joy.
FACT - Liverpool
FACT is the UK’s leading centre for art, film and the creative use of technology. Located in the heart of Liverpool city centre, FACT creates transformative experiences that spark the imagination and enrich lives. Home to three art galleries, four cinema screens and a Studio/Lab for artists, the centre provides platforms and opportunities for people to create, learn, experience and make sense of the world today. Find Out More
SIGNAL FILM & MEDIA - Barrow-in-Furness
Signal Film & Media is an award-winning charity providing creative film and digital media activities from our venue, Cooke’s Studios, based in Barrow-in-Furness.
Since 2001 we have provided a unique resource for 1000’s of people of all ages and backgrounds to access free facilities, professional tutoring and hands-on experience in film and creative digital media. Find out more.
Want to know more about the BFI Film Academy Offer? Take a look at the BFI Website
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