At the end of February, BFI Film Academy SW presented Inside Screen 2026 at Watershed – a stacked Saturday filled with panels, short films and networking for 16 to 25-year-olds.
The opening ceremony was the culmination of BFI Film Academy’s Short Course, a 10-day programme for 16 to 19-year-olds to create a documentary film. Led by mentors Black Bark Films and filmmaker Theo Watkins, it was a fantastic celebration with friends and family to witness the result of such hard work.
Having your work be celebrated, it motivates you to do more, create more.” Course participant
A special treat kicked off public proceedings: two of the latest BFI NETWORK-funded shorts by filmmakers based in the South West. Hosted by Talent Executive Nadia Attia, we were joined by Pen Mari director Siôn Marshall-Waters and Grandboy producer Liping Pan for a Q&A on their pieces and getting your work made.
It’s great to meet young people and future filmmakers, leading to lots of questions and conversations.” Liping Pan
Lily Woodcock, Bex Rose and Martha Redfern joined us next to share what their roles as producers entail, share firsthand experiences, and explain how you become one. Ran by Talent Development Producer Claire Simmons, the session was a masterclass on this significant role across each stage of production.
Sharing more on roles within the film industry, All Set West’s Jane Coulter and Jenny Duffy brought High End TV trainees Daniel Markey, Em Robinson and Jay Adlam to share their experiences in production and provide insights on how to carve out potential career pathways.
During the lunch break and alongside the masterclasses, attendees could also join creative Cressida Williams to craft and chat, offering a chilled space for them to connect.
This atmosphere helps with the final session, How to Network, hosted by Talent Comms and Outreach Coordinator Ella McDonald. Finding your purpose, finding common interests outside of film, and finding an excuse to leave a conversation were all top tips when going to industry events.
Participants could then put this helpful advice into practice with industry professionals and South West Filmmakers, sharing further insights and making new connections. Thank you to everyone who joined us; keep up to date with future events and opportunities via our Instagram @takepart_ws and BFI Film Academy SW’s newsletter!
