A COURSE set up to train the next generation of filmmakers will return to Bradford after a successful first year.

The British Film Institute’s pioneering Film Academy first came to the city last year, through funding from the Department of Education, and saw many young talents honing their craft by learning how to edit, write and create films.

Delivered by Reel Solutions, along with local partners including the University of Bradford, the National Media Museum and the Northern School of Creative Industries, the

academy is now recruiting students for its second year.

The course gives young people who are passionate about film the opportunity to develop practical film skills, commercial and cultural knowledge and ambition to forge a career in film whatever their background. Participants can work towards gaining an NCFE in Preparing to Work in the Film Industry, a qualification designed specifically by the British Film Institute and therefore recognised by the industry. The academy also includes masterclasses by leading film professionals covering key areas of the film industry such as producing, camera work, storytelling, casting, sound recording, editing, film exhibition and distribution.

Last year’s crop of young filmmakers got the chance to use some of Bradford’s most striking locations as backdrops to films, including the Midland Hotel, where they produced short films that they wrote, filmed, produced and starred in.

The films were later premiered at an event in the National Media Museum where an audience of around 100 people watched the films and a “making of” documentary that was also put together by the students.

Zoe Naylor from Reel Solutions said: “We’re so pleased to be delivering another BFI Film Academy in Bradford and giving local teenagers the opportunity to do something that will support their careers in film.

“We believe in the next generation, their enthusiasm, their talent and their ambitions and feel hugely privileged to be able to help support and play a role in enabling their dreams by giving them the opportunity to engage with filmmaking processes and professionals from the UK film and TV industry.

“The Academies have seen some great results with alumni already securing jobs in film.”

There are 20 places for 16-19-year-olds not currently studying at university.

BFI CEO Amanda Nevill says: “Nothing gives me greater pleasure than seeing the BFI able to make a contribution to opening doors and offering opportunities for the next talented generation. We know how important it if for us to do this, to nurture and support the gifted and talented, wherever they are in the UK, because the future of our industry depends on them. This would not be possible without the backing of the Department for Education and all our partners, and the many individuals from the industry who enthusiastically share their experience and offer guidance to students.”

The course starts on October 8 and will run on weekends and through the half-term holiday in October.

Details of how to apply can be found on reelsolutions.co.uk or the BFI’s website bfi.org.uk.