University gets active with future film makers

The University of Wolverhampton is supporting the next generation of film makers through a British Film Academy programme.

The British Film Institute (BFI) Film Academy is providing the opportunity for students interested in film and animation to take part in the British Film Industry’s talent development programme.

The Academy is run through a partnership between MediaActive and the University of Wolverhampton and is based at Wem Town Hall in North Shropshire.

A total of 18 creative students will be selected to take part in the next programme running from early October to late November 2014.

There is still time to apply to take part. Prospective applicants need to apply by October 6 2014 by downloading an application form at www.mediaactive.org

The BFI, in partnership with BAFTA, Pinewood Studios and the Department for Education will offer young people aged 16 to 19 years industry based work experience through the national BFI Film Academy Network.

The academy programme will cover all elements of film including; film history, script development, animation techniques, editing, sound, design, music and special effects.

The programme will help develop the next generation of British film industry talent and provide successful applicants with the opportunity to broaden their portfolio, enhance their CV and stand out from the crowd in the film industry.

Participants will work on a commission, with award winning animators, and will learn about all aspects of film and animation production and will benefit from master classes with filmmakers, universities and film production companies.

As a graduate of the academy ongoing access to training and advice will be available through the new UK wide BFI network.

Ross Winning, from the University’s Faculty of Arts, said: “Faculty of Arts Staff are contributing by providing first class tuition and mentorship. The University of Wolverhampton is proud to continue supporting this opportunity for young people by helping them to make the first step towards realising their professional ambition in Animation.”

BFI CEO Amanda Nevill added: “The BFI is committed to developing tomorrow’s film audiences and talent and the BFI Film Academy is at the heart of our comprehensive strategy to give young people across the UK opportunities to engage with film. We’re proud that through the BFI Film Academy young people of all backgrounds are given a springboard to a career in film.

“Following an enormously successful inaugural year in 2012, the Academy is now establishing itself as a gold standard training and development programme with a vision for future growth. This wouldn’t be possible without the backing of the Department for Education and we thank them and all our partners for their continuing support as we this year take the Film Academy to more people than ever across the UK.”

For more information on the programme call 01939 238276 or email info@mediaactive.org

ENDS