Break into the Film Industry with Showroom

By Grace Osbourne, Marketing Manager for Showroom Cinema

Are you thinking about a career in film? Showroom Cinema works with the BFI and partners to offer young people chances to learn about filmmaking, programming, marketing and distribution through regular residential programmes throughout the year. 

This spring, 16–19 year olds can get their foot into the film industry with two fantastic free courses coming up with the BFI Film Academy, delivered by Showroom cinema.  

First up is the residential course in Film Curation and Archiving. If you have an interest in digging through archives, and learning how to preserve old film, this course is for you! In addition to meeting industry experts, participants will visit The Yorkshire and North East Film Archive, and other media archives. At the end of the week, you will have the chance to curate and edit an archive touring film package for cinema exhibition, and present it to industry professionals. The in-person element of the course runs from Monday 16 February 2026 - Sunday 22 February 2026, and the deadline for applications is midday, Friday 16 January 2026. 

Next, we have the residential course specialising in Film Programming, delivered in partnership with Reclaim the Frame, the UK's campaign for gender justice in cinema, connecting women and gender diverse filmmakers with audiences and industry opportunities. Spend a week learning from film critics, film markers and other industry professionals, before working with a team to build your own dream festival at Showroom Cinema. Want to see what you will be working towards? Tickets for 2025’s Programming Residential course are on sale now. The in-person element of the course runs from Sunday 29 March – Saturday 4 April 2026, and the deadline for applications is midday, Friday 28 February 2026.   

Both courses are completely free, with costs covering three meals per day and accommodation in Sheffield city centre within walking distance of Showroom Cinema. A generous bursary is available to support with any travel and access requirements. 

Alumni from BFI Film Academy courses have gone on to work at the BBC, Warner Brothers, Sheffield DocFest and many other key organisations in the screen sector.  

Showroom Cinema is one of seven BFI Film Academies in the United Kingdom, providing young people with practical training, mentoring, and clear routes into screen careers. 

Both residential courses mentioned are part of BFI Film Academy, a national talent programme supported by the Department for Education and the National Lottery.  

Apply for both opportunities on Showroom Cinema’s website today at https://showroomcinema.org.uk/break-into-film