Brilliant Film Academy helps youngsters break into industry

The Brilliant Film Academy in St Albans and Kings Langley focuses on hands-on learning.

It provides students with practical skills and state-of-the-art equipment.

David Jenkins, founder of Brilliant Theatre Arts which includes the Film Academies, said: "We are focused on giving young people hands-on training, giving them all the kit they need to learn.

"We help them to understand the job roles, from the start of the filmmaking process, making it from the start, right to the very finish and then the editing.

"We want to firstly help young people discover filmmaking, get them passionate and excited, and then guide and help them on their pathway into the industry."

The academy also offers work shadowing opportunities, leading to career prospects for many students.

Jake Swan is one of the students who praised the Academy's efforts and is currently looking at a potential job at Panavision. (Image: Rosey Whitehead from ESA Productions) One such student is 19-year-old Jake Swan, who is now an apprentice with London-based Dreamtown Films and Goldfinch Entertainment. 

He is eyeing a potential job with Panavision.

Jake said: "When I saw what Brilliant offers, it seemed to meet all my needs required to develop myself as a young filmmaker.

"It gives students the skills and experience to be able to make a film from start to finish and then showcase it to an audience; along with building vital contacts with people already working in the industry, which bridges onto future work."

Rebecca is heading to Uni and takes her expertise that she has learnt from the Academy with her. (Image: Young Film Academy) Another student, Rebecca Telford, also 19, is heading to university to study directing and producing, armed with her experience at the academy.

Rebecca said: "Brilliant has enabled me to decide which department I want to go into, which is directing and producing, and given me the opportunity to work on external projects, such as making promotional videos for a theatre company, DYAD Productions.

"I would strongly encourage other young people to look into Brilliant.

"It’s a place that has broadened my understanding of the industry and built my confidence."

Students have praised the comprehensive coverage of all aspects of the filmmaking process and the extensive experience of working with film, TV, and production companies.