BFI Film Academy Introductory Course
BFI Film Academy North West is delivered by HOME supported by the UK Government and National Lottery Funding
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.
At HOME, you’ll become part of a production team and work together to create your own professional-standard short film. Along the way, you’ll take part in practical workshops and masterclasses, build new skills, meet industry professionals and discover the different routes you could take into a career in film and TV.
Eligibility
Age: 16–19 years old, or up to 25 if you have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)
Experience: No prior filmmaking experience is required; a passion for film is sufficient
Location: HOME, 2 Tony Wilson Place, Manchester, M15 4FN
You can find the application form at the bottom of this form. Applications close at 10am on Wednesday 23rd September 2026.
See below for the programme dates. Please make it clear in your application if there are any dates you cannot attend.
| Date | Time | Session |
| Wed 14/10/2026 | 18:00 - 20:00 | Intro Session |
| Sat 17/10/2026 | 10:00 - 16:00 | Kick Off Day - A chance for BFI Film Academy Introductory Course participants from across the North West to come together at HOME for a day of screenings, hands-on filmmaking workshops and networking with other young filmmakers. |
| Mon 26/10/2026 | 10:00 - 16:00 | Pre Production masterclass - Four days of hands-on sessions led by industry professionals, where you’ll build skills in scriptwriting, camera, lighting and sound, explore different on-set roles, and get ready for the shoot days. |
| Tue 27/10/2026 | 10:00 - 16:00 | Pre Production masterclass |
| Wed 28/10/2026 | 10:00 - 16:00 | Pre Production masterclass |
| Sat 07/11/2026 | 10:00 - 16:00 | Pre Production |
| Sat 21/11/2026 | 10:00 - 17:00 | Shoot Day 1 - The group will split into two teams to shoot the short film over two weekends, giving everyone the chance to experience a range of roles on set. |
| Sun 22/11/2026 | 10:00 - 17:00 | Shoot Day 1 |
| Sat 28/11/2026 | 10:00 - 17:00 | Shoot Day 2 |
| Sun 29/11/2026 | 10:00 - 17:00 | Shoot Day 2 |
| Wed 02/12/2026 | 17:00 - 19:00 | Industry talks and screening - Join industry professionals for short film screenings, hear about their careers and experiences, and take part in a Q&A where you can ask your questions. |
| Sat 12/05/2026 | 10:00 - 15:00 | Trip - A trip to visit local film and television studios in Manchester. |
| Sat 09/01/2027 | 10:00 - 15:00 | Post Production - Learn the editing skills you’ll need to bring your film together and get it ready for the big screen! |
| Sat 16/01/2027 | 10:00 - 15:00 | Post Production |
| Sat 23/01/2027 | 10:00 - 15:00 | Post Production |
| Sat 20/02/2027 | 10:00 - 16:00 | Celebration screening event and networking afternoon - Come together with BFI Film Academy participants from across the North West to celebrate your achievements, watch each cohort’s films on the big screen, and meet fellow participants and local filmmakers. |
