Applications open for free BFI Film Academy course in film curation and archiving for young people

Applications are open for a new, free training scheme for ages 18-22, in film curation and archiving, at Showroom Cinema, Sheffield.

The BFI Film Academy Training Course Film Curation and Archiving, delivered by Showroom Cinema in partnership with the Yorkshire and North East Film Archive, is part of the BFI’s flagship skills programme for young people across the UK, supported by the UK Government and the National Lottery.

The 30-person residential is based in Sheffield, from 22-28 February 2027, and open to 18-22-year-olds across the UK. Travel, food and accommodation are provided.

The group will visit leading film archives and hear from industry experts, opening pathways for careers in film preservation, film restoration, moving image curation, film festival programming and documentary production.

The Yorkshire and North East Film Archive will provide an introduction to archiving, including a dedicated day of technical demos, tours, and practical activities at the regional archive in York. Participants will be mentored throughout the residential week and will meet industry professionals every day, picking up advice on how to kick-start a career in film.

By the end of the week, participants will put their skills from workshops, screenings, technical training and masterclasses to work, curating and editing an archive short film to present to a panel of industry professionals.

This training course is the latest opportunity from the BFI Film Academy Yorkshire and The Humber. Announced earlier this year, the Hub is one of 12 BFI Film Academy Hubs across the country, offering year-round access to local training, transferable skills and early career support for the screen industries. Course alumni can access ongoing career support up to the age of 25, including drop-in sessions, CV advice and talks.

Alumni from previous training courses have gone on to work at Warner Bros., Sheffield DocFest, production companies and post-production facilities, and on schemes and apprenticeships with the National Film and Television School and Pinewood Studios.

Johnathan Illot, Head of Programming at Showroom Cinema, says:

“Film archives hold some of the most extraordinary stories in our region. This course is a rare chance for young people to go behind the scenes, learn from experts and leave with an archive film they’ve curated themselves. It’s free, it’s hands-on, and for anyone curious about a career in film, it could be the start of something big.”

A 2025 alumni of the BFI Film Academy says:

"[The course] opened my eyes to career opportunities, further fuelled my passion to work in the film industry and gave me the confidence and some introductory experience to follow this dream. I'll be forever grateful to the BFI Film Academy for these fabulous opportunities and for helping me work towards a career in film".

Applications are open now and will close at midnight on Saturday 9 January 2027. Find out more in a webinar on Tuesday 8 December. For full details and to apply, visit: https://showroomcinema.org.uk/bfi-film-academy-training-course-film-curation-and-archiving-2027.

The BFI Film Academy Film Curation and Archiving Training Course 2027 is delivered by Showroom Cinema in partnership with the Yorkshire and North East Film Archive and supported by the UK Government and National Lottery funding.