Ayrshire Film Company is part of BFI Film Academy Scotland, a new regional Hub for aspiring filmmakers aged 16-25, connecting young people across Scotland with opportunities to develop creative skills, build industry networks, explore career pathways and take part in film activity throughout the year.
The BFI Film Academy Scotland offers a focused, practical pathway for young creatives ready to step into filmmaking with confidence and industry awareness.
Across the course, participants explore each stage of filmmaking in depth from developing scripts and planning shoots to hands-on production, directing, sound and editing.
Masterclasses with industry professionals build real-world understanding, while practical group projects strengthen confidence on set. You’ll earn a recognised qualification, connect with a national alumni network, and take part in a Scotland-wide screening and networking event designed to open doors into further study and the screen industries.
Whether you’re interested in filmmaking, storytelling, production, animation or content creation, the Hub offers a range of ways to get involved, from workshops and industry events to hands-on training opportunities. Young people aged 16-19 can also apply for Introductory Filmmaking Courses, designed to develop practical skills and introduce participants to careers in film and screen.
BFI Film Academy Scotland is delivered by Screen Education Edinburgh in partnership with screen organisations across Scotland, supported by the UK Government, National Lottery and Screen Scotland funding.
They have given me both short term steps and long term leaps towards my goal of being in the film industry.
The course has helped me understand what I need to improve, where I want to go next and how to keep progressing.
Jack Henson, 2025 Participant
I learned that not everything goes to plan but you need to problem solve and figure it out rather than panic and worry.
It taught me to stay calm, adapt to situations and work with others to find a solution when challenges come up.
Sophie Wilson, 2025 Participant
The Cinematography session in the first week inspired me to work with lighting and sound.
It gave me a much better understanding of how those elements can shape a scene, create atmosphere and help bring the overall story to life on screen.
Nathan Reid, 2025 Participant
AFC / BFI alumni
Eden’s experience in the 2024-25 BFI Film Academy Scotland was “beyond words amazing,” where she collaborated on a short film focused on twins establishing their individuality.
The program was invaluable, significantly boosting her skills, confidence, and understanding of the industry’s various aspects. Eden’s ambition is now to become a director and producer, using cinema to create meaningful and impactful stories that help people.
Max took part in the 2024 BFI Film Academy Scotland, where he began exploring his interests in animation, writing, and cinematography. Following the academy, Max continued his journey in filmmaking by participating in two additional Ayrshire Film Company projects: Ayrshire Screen Teams and TVAyrshire.
This commitment demonstrates how the initial BFI experience helped propel his involvement in local film production.
Logan was interested in filmmaking and photography but lacked experience in a group setting.
Taking part in the 2025 BFI Film Academy Scotland provided him with the chance to collaborate with peers on a short film, which was an invaluable opportunity to advance his skills in cinematography and editing.