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Young people across the South East are set to benefit from new opportunities to develop creative and technical skills, following the launch of the BFI Film Academy South East, a regional hub delivering free training, industry connections and career development for aspiring filmmakers and screen creatives aged 16 to 25.
Led by Screen South, the new hub forms part of a nationwide network of 12 BFI Film Academy Hubs designed to create more local opportunities for young people to access filmmaking training and support closer to home. The initiative will provide year-round opportunities for young people from across the South East to explore careers within the film, television and wider screen industries.
The programme will be delivered in partnership with Resource Productions, The Bright Foundation and Film Oxford, bringing together expertise from across the region to offer a comprehensive programme of introductory courses, creative workshops, networking opportunities and ongoing career development activities.
For the Kent & Medway Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), the launch highlights the importance of creating clear pathways into growth sectors and ensuring young people can access the skills, experiences and industry connections needed to succeed. The creative and digital industries continue to play an important role within the regional economy, and initiatives such as the BFI Film Academy help young people explore the diverse range of careers available behind the scenes in screen production, from technical and creative roles to project management, marketing and emerging digital disciplines.
The programme is open to young people of all backgrounds and experience levels, providing a supportive environment where participants can develop practical filmmaking skills, build confidence, meet industry professionals and connect with fellow creatives. Importantly, participation is free, helping to reduce barriers to entry and widen access to careers within the screen industries.
The launch also coincides with the national See Yourself in the Credits campaign, which encourages young people to imagine a future for themselves within the UK’s thriving film and television sector, regardless of their background or where they live.
Young people aged 16 to 25 can now join the BFI Film Academy South East community to receive updates on upcoming opportunities, with applications for introductory courses opening soon.
As the LSIP continues to champion employer-led skills development across Kent & Medway, initiatives such as this demonstrate the value of collaboration between industry, training providers and cultural organisations in creating meaningful routes into employment and helping to develop the future workforce.
To learn more about BFI Film Academy South East and register for updates, visit the programme’s sign-up page here.
