University Supports the Next Generation of Big Screen Talent
The University of Hertfordshire’s School of Creative Arts has joined up with the British Film Institute (BFI) to revolutionise film education for nearly five-hundred five to nineteen year olds, as a result of £3m worth of funding given by the Department for Education in England.
Nurturing Talent
Focusing on the recruitment of sixteen to nineteen year olds within the eastern region, the initiative between the University and the BFI will involve working with schools, colleges and youth organisations in Hertfordshire and Essex - to select the most talented and committed young people from a diverse range of backgrounds. The selected students will be given the opportunity to attend weekend workshops from 26 January until 3 March 2013.
Alan Peacock, Subject Leader of Interactive Media and Screen Cultures, says: “The University has the vision to develop students’ understanding of film-making, with a clear emphasis on both technical skills with industry level equipment and on the development of ideas in fiction and documentary formats.”
He adds: “The students who are fortunate enough to be selected for this experience will be taught by, and work with, industry professionals and University teachers with recent industry experience. They will work in state of the art fully digital production and post-production environment, developing their knowledge and understanding of the processes involved in film and television creative enterprises.”
Career Progression
Led by industry experts, the BFI Film Academy will cover every area of the film industry – including development, production, marketing, PR and distribution - enabling students to progress to employment opportunities within the film sector and further learning through higher education. A selection of students will also be eligible to be put forward for a nationally recognised Arts Award, following completion of the programme.
BFI CEO Amanda Nevill says: “Film and the creative industries as a whole are at the heart of the UK’s economic recovery and is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.”
“However, to ensure further growth we must find, encourage and nurture the talent of tomorrow – those with the creativity and skills needed to drive future success in the UK’s film industry. This project is designed to do just that.”
Applications
The programme at the University of Hertfordshire will run over weekends from 26 January until 3 March and welcomes applications from all groups aged between 16 and 19 years of age who are talented and have an interest in pursuing a career within the film industry. Students who have studied drama, English and communications or have little experience but are interested in film are also encouraged to apply.
For more information or to obtain an application pack, please contact the School of Creative Arts, University of Hertfordshire, on 01707 285327 or email p.bryan@herts.ac.uk.
The deadline for submission is 23:00 on 13 January 2013 and applicants will be notified by 16 January.