Our recent Careers Series exemplifies our commitment by offering our students invaluable insights and practical advice.
This series was kickstarted by prestigious festival attendance opportunities, from sending BA students to the Sundance Festival to immersing MA Filmmaking students in Raindance and empowering MA Screenwriters at the London Screenwriters Festival.
These experiences, which provided a comprehensive understanding of the industry, have set the stage for the Careers Series, with the latest sessions further enriching our students' knowledge and preparation.
One of the highlights of this series of events was the collaboration with BECTU, the media and entertainment union renowned for advocating workers' rights and supporting professionals in film, TV, theatre, and other fields.
We had a representative from BECTU in the building to offer students the chance to discuss the benefits of union membership.
They covered everything from how joining BECTU can bolster one's career through networking opportunities to legal support and ensuring fair working conditions—a crucial step for anyone serious about navigating the competitive but rewarding film industry.
But the events didn't stop there. Our commitment to a comprehensive education across the film sector saw students engage in diverse workshops and seminars tailored to enhance their skills and industry knowledge, catering to a wide range of interests.
Here are some of the key sessions that took place:
Screenwriters Learning and Participation Workshop
For aspiring screenwriters, the opportunity to learn directly from seasoned professionals is invaluable, so we facilitated a workshop where students immersed themselves in the art and craft of screenwriting.
They received firsthand insights from experts, including practical tips on refining their scripts and understanding the nuances of storytelling for the screen.
London Library Visit and Presentation
In collaboration with the London Library, LFA organised an enriching visit for our MA Screenwriting students.
John O'Farrell, a prominent figure in the industry, delivered an inspiring presentation and students not only gained insights into O'Farrell's journey but also received a guided tour of the library—an iconic institution steeped in literary history.
This was followed by engaging group discussions where students received constructive feedback on their own creative works, reinforcing the nurturing environment for growth and development we're championing here at LFA, and making our students feel supported and encouraged.
Intimacy Coordination Workshop
In today's film industry, ensuring a safe and respectful environment on set is paramount, which is why we hosted a session led by Intimacy Coordinator David Thackeray.
This workshop explored the vital role of intimacy coordinators in facilitating scenes that require sensitivity and professionalism.
Students had the opportunity to learn about best practices and gain practical experience under expert guidance—a critical aspect of preparing for real-world film sets.
Aesthetica Film Festival Insights
The Aesthetica Film Festival, renowned for celebrating innovative filmmaking worldwide, was a focal point of discussion during a virtual session led by Cherie Federico, Festival Director.
Students learned about the festival's criteria for selecting entries, strategic considerations for choosing festivals and categories, and practical advice on maximising their submissions—an essential skill for aspiring filmmakers aiming to showcase their work on an international platform.
Showreel Workshop
A standout showreel is often a filmmaker's calling card.
Recognising this, we dedicated a workshop to guiding students on crafting compelling showreels that resonate with industry professionals.
From selecting the right clips to editing techniques highlighting one's strengths, students gained invaluable insights into optimising their showreels to stand out in a competitive industry.
CV Masterclass/Workshop
Crafting a standout CV is often the first step towards securing opportunities in the film industry.
We hosted a masterclass where students received expert guidance on structuring their CVs effectively, highlighting relevant skills and experiences, and tailoring applications to specific roles.
This practical workshop equipped students with the tools needed to make a strong impression on potential employers and collaborators.
The Careers Series has featured countless collaborators, from industry leaders like BECTU and immersive workshops across various disciplines, underscoring our continued commitment to preparing students for successful careers in film.
We're providing access to insider knowledge, practical skills, and networking opportunities as we continue to nurture the next generation of filmmakers who will shape the future of film.
Our passionate aspiring filmmakers are carving out their place in the industry, better equipped by the tools and experiences the LFA Careers Stream Series has provided, a testament to the program's impact.
We're excited to see our cohorts utilise what they have learned and can't wait to see what's next for them.