Helping hand for filmmakers

The British Film Institute (BFI) Film Academy Leeds is returning for a fifth year to offer young people, aged from 16 to 19 years old, chance to develop the knowledge and skills to pursue a career in film.

Participants will get to work alongside professional directors, writers, producers and actors from films such as Wedding Belles, Four Lions and We Are Poets and hear from others involved in television shows such as Humans, Outlander, Game of Thrones and Emmerdale.

Gage Oxley, who took part in the 2014 BFI Film Academy, said: “The BFI Film Academy was a life-changing experience; I learned so much about filmmaking, from script writing to exhibition as well as making a film that I am incredibly proud of.”

Open to anyone not studying at university, the programme is delivered by Leeds Young Film, Beta Filmworks and Access Moving Image. The course, which runs from October to December, aims to help train and inspire the next generation of British filmmakers.

The BFI Film Academy offers training for roles including writing, directing, production, sound design, editing and camera. The most committed participants will be recommended to attend the residential BFI Talent Campus at the National Film & Television School at Easter 2017, offering an opportunity to work with filmmakers such as Edgar Wright who directed Hot Fuzz.

Councillor Mohammed Rafique, Leeds City Council’s executive member for employment, enterprise and opportunity, said: “The BFI Film Academy is a brilliant opportunity for creative young people to get some expert advice and unique experience, which could offer some crucial inspiration and guidance for those wanting to forge a career as a filmmaker.”

To apply visit www.betafilmworks.org/filmacademy/.