BFI Film Academy: Upcoming Events
Our BFI Film Academy events, supported by the National Lottery, provide the opportunity for young film lovers to meet other creatives and film organisations in the region.
These consist of workshops, talent mixers and showcase events, where young film enthusiasts will have the opportunity to watch other people’s films, promote their own creative work, and learn more about the business of film. If you are aged 16-25 and looking to meet like-minded young people to collaborate with, BFI Film Academy is the place for you.
Upcoming events will be listed below. Subscribe to our newsletter to find out when new events are live first.
Future Events
Behind the Screens: How to Be a Film Programmer
24 March, 6:00 PM (Key Theatre, Peterborough)
What is film programming? No, it doesn’t involve code! Every time you go to the cinema, or a film festival, or switch on Film4, someone chose that film you watched – no algorithms! You don’t need to know anything about film programming to join us – just bring your love of films, and a curiosity about how they make it to the big screen.
In this session, led by programmer Emily Steele-Dias, you’ll learn:
- What film programming actually is (and why it’s so important)
- How films are selected for festivals, cinemas, and events
- The practical details behind curating a great screening experience
- First steps to start programming films yourself
Whether you’re a film lover, aspiring festival curator, or just someone who wants to know what happens behind the screens, this workshop is the perfect place to start.
Emily Steele-Dias is a creative professional based in Peterborough, working as a freelance producer, curator, and artist. In 2017, she founded Cine-Sister CIC, an organisation dedicated to showcasing and promoting films by women filmmakers. In 2019, Cine-Sister CIC launched the Gateway Film Festival in Peterborough, a community-focused festival that celebrates a wide range of cinema while fostering connections within the local community. Gateway partners with various local organisations and groups to create a broad and eclectic programme including a fusion of film with other art forms such as dance, music, and poetry, engaging a wide range of audiences across the city. In 2023, Gateway Film Festival was selected to run the Film Hub South East branch of the BFI Spotlight project developing new long-term screening programmes with partners around Peterborough.
This event is delivered by Young Film Network South East and supported by National Lottery funding.
Film Screening and Networking for Young People
4 April, 1:00 PM (Turner Contemporary, Margate)
Join us for a special screening and networking event for aspiring filmmakers aged 16-25. Meet industry experts, expand your professional network, and connect with fellow creatives for potential collaborations.
Taking inspiration from the themes of Turner Contemporary’s current exhibition, Resistance, this screening will showcase captivating short films by filmmakers in the South East, each telling distinct narratives through innovative filmmaking styles.
Speakers from BFI Film Academy and Into Film will join us to discuss upcoming opportunities, funding, and programmes you can get involved in. During the networking part of the event, you’ll have the chance to connect with fellow attendees, and our speakers will be available to answer any questions you may have.
Drinks and snacks will be provided. Booking is essential.
