Whether you have a passion for film or are just interested about exploring your options in the creative industries, our BFI Film Academy Short Course is a great way of introducing you to the many elements of working in the film and screen industries.

Our eleven-session course is led by skilled film industry professionals from across the North East who have a wealth of experience working in the industry, and are keen to share their skills with aspiring young filmmakers.

Learn about scriptwriting, producing, directing, cinematography, special effects and editing, through a series of workshops and masterclasses, before going on to create your own short film as part of a team with the potential for screenings both locally and internationally. 

Since 2014 Jack Drum Arts has trained over 200 young filmmakers, supported the production of more than 30 short films, and provided work experience opportunities to young people on professional film shoots.  Many of our film academy short course graduates have since gone on to study film at University, train on one of the BFI’s specialist courses, secured work in the industry and set up their own film production companies.

At the end of the course there will be an opportunity to attend a sharing of work from BFI Short Courses across the region and see your own work on the Big Screen.

Dates and times

Mon 27th October 10am-5pm
Tues 28th October 10am-5pm
Wed 29th October 10am-5pm
Sat 8th November 10am-5pm
Sat 15th November 10am-5pm
Sat 22nd November 10am-5pm
Sat 29th November 10am-5pm
Sat 6th December 10am-5pm
Sat 13th December 10am-5pm
Sat 10th January 2026 10am-5pm
Sat 17th January 10am-5pm
Sat 28th January Regional sharing event

We are able to provide free transport and a childcare bursary for eligible young people. Pastoral care for young people with additional needs and translation support for young refugees is also available.  Please enquire for more information.

Eligibility
In order to apply you must:

• be aged 16 to 19-years-old on the first day of the course

• be a UK resident

• have a passion or talent for filmmaking and an ambition to work in the film industry

• be able to commit to the duration of the course

• not currently be at university or enrolled at university when the course starts

• not have previously enrolled on a BFI Film Academy course

For more information or for help with your application, please contact bfi@jackdrum.co.uk or call the office on 01388 765002

Applications opening soon.

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