Jack Drum Arts are the BFI Film Academy Partner for County Durham and Tees Valley delivering 2 x industry standard short courses for young people ages 16-19 years who wish to develop the commercial and cultural knowledge and skills to have a career in the UK film industry.

Our BFI Film Academy short courses take place annually from October until January at St Cuthbert’s Centre in Crook, and at our new venue ‘Tuned In’ in Redcar. Our courses are led by film industry professionals from across the North East who have a wealth of experience working in the industry and are keen to share their skills with aspiring young filmmakers. Young people are able to participate in a series of workshops and masterclasses learning about scriptwriting, producing, directing, cinematography, special effects and editing, going on to create their own short films as part of a team with the potential for screenings both locally and internationally.  All young people are offered the opportunity to undertake an NCFE Level 2 Award in Preparing to Work in the Film Industry.

Since 2014 we have trained over 160 young filmmakers, supported the production of 20 short films and provided work experience opportunities to young people on professional film shoots.  Many of our film academy short course graduates have since gone on to study film at University, secured work in the industry and set up their own film production companies.

We can provide free transport and a childcare bursary for eligible young people who are resident in County Durham and Tees Valley.  Pastoral care for young people with additional needs and translation support for young refugees is also available.  Please enquire for more information.

Applications for our 2023 courses are now closed. Please check back in September 2024 when we will be recruiting again.