Applications now OPEN for the BFI Film Academy Film Programming Specialist Course 2025–2026!

Are you aged 16–19, passionate about film and wanting to take your first steps into the industry?

We’re thrilled to be collaborating with Showroom Cinema and British Film Institute on this upcoming residential, and have been working behind the scenes to build a stellar line up of industry professionals across distribution, exhibition and audience engagement. The course is open to young people across the UK, no experience required, just curiosity and a love of film!

Taking place for one week in person (28 July 2025 - 3 August 2025) and on two Saturdays online this summer, it is completely free to participate, with travel, meals and accommodation covered.

You will be mentored throughout your time at the residential and will get the chance to meet various industry professionals on a daily basis who can give you tips on how to kick-start your career in film. Those joining to share their expertise so far include reps from Altitude Films, BIFA, Cinema For All, Dark Matter, Hyde Park Picture House, Independent Cinema Office, Minute Shorts, Sheffield DocFest and Queer East Film Festival, all of whom will be delivering sessions alongside members from our team at #ReclaimTheFrame! More speakers to be announced. 

Deadline: Midday, Monday 30 June 2025

In-person residential: 28 July – 3 August 2025

Apply now via Showroom Cinema’s website: https://www.showroomworkstation.org.uk/bfiacademy2025/residential

This residential course is part of BFI Film Academy, a national talent programme supported by the Department for Education and the National Lottery.