Below are answers to some topics you may want answers to. If you feel you need further information please email us info@nfmacademy.co.uk
I’m still in education – can I join the NFM Academy?
No, not until you have finished your studies and are available but you can attend networking events. If you are a final year student you can attend Bootcamp, master classes and workshops.
I’m under 18 can I be an Academy member?
No, under 18’s aren’t insured on productions so it’s very difficult for us to help until you’re 18. You can attend networking events.
I am working in a full time job but keen to start a career in the industry. I have no previous experience, would I be eligible?
Yes absolutely, the Academy welcomes emerging talent from all backgrounds and often finds many of the current skills you possess are transferrable.
Can I just attend the Academy events but not be a member of the Academy?
Yes, but you may need to attend Bootcamp before you will be eligible for workshops and masterclasses. You must have a north east base.
What if I don’t know which department I want to train in?
Take some time to research the industry and try and identify the roles and department you’re interested in. You will need to be passionate about the department to secure a work placement. Check out our crew profiles. If you’re still unsure then consider work experience or shadowing until you have a clear idea or go to https://www.screenskills.com/careers/job-profiles/
What are the most common opportunities that come up?
It really depends on what is being filmed in the region at the time. We have placed Academy members with returning dramas, the likes of ITV Vera and Beowulf as well as CBBC’s Dumping Ground and Wolfblood. We’ve had runner opportunities on many large scale productions such as Downton Abbey, The Last Kingdom, Transformers, Avengers. We’ve had some shadowing opportunities with regional independent production companies. Through NFM’s Production Service we encourage visiting productions to offer entry level opportunities which we then pass on to the Academy members. Check out our case studies to see some examples of NFM Academy members placements.
Do you guarantee shadowing/work experience/ trainee placements/work?
No, any opportunities we offer will go to the person most suitable for the role and the production. You should continue to build your networks, research and contact productions directly.
What is Bootcamp?
NFM Academy Bootcamp is funded by Creative Skillset and takes place once a quarter. It is open to anyone looking to work in the film and TV industry.
3rd year University students can attend and without professional broadcast credits it is an entry requirement to become a member of the Academy. Sessions include:
- On set Etiquette, Media CV’s and Top tips from Industry professionals
Do I have to do Bootcamp before being considered for an opportunity?
If you’ve never worked on the set of a professional production you must attend Bootcamp. The sessions covered at Bootcamp aim to provide the knowledge and guidance line producers have indicated is lacking in newcomers to the industry.
Do work experience placement opportunities come up?
It really depends on what is being filmed in the region at the time. We have placed the majority of our Academy members with returning dramas, the likes of ITV Vera and BBC’s Dumping Ground and Wolfblood. Other opportunities could be working on a feature films or with an Independent production company.
I’m under 18 can I get a work experience placement?
No, under 18’s aren’t insured on productions.
How long does a work experience placement last?
Placements will vary in length depending on the needs of the production.
Are all placement positions entry level?
No, we are also looking for people wishing to step up to the next grade.
I don’t have a north east base – can I be join NFM Academy?
Currently the support we have is for people based in the north east.
I don’t have a CV – do you have any advice?
You can download a CV template below. During the NFM Film and TV Bootcamp there will be a session about developing your CV.
Do I need to be able to drive and have access to a car?
Productions can take place anywhere in the region and may not be accessible by public transport. Call times may be unsociable. It will be your responsibility to get yourself there and so yes, we would suggest you should pass your driving test and ensure you have access to a car.
Will you find me a job?
You need to be proactive in finding work. We will help you where we can and we will give you access to a whole host of Academy opportunities. These opportunities and jobs will go to the best person for the particular job.
It is up to you to get the most out of the Academy and all that it has to offer.
