Preparing Students for the Industry: A Glimpse into Our Innovative Approach

02 July 2024

In the dynamic world of film and television, preparing students for the industry requires more than just theoretical knowledge—it demands hands-on experience, industry exposure, and real-world skills.  

At LFA, we take pride in our proactive approach by equipping students with the tools they need to thrive in their careers.  

From prestigious film festivals across London to practical workshops, here is how we ensure our students are industry-ready. 

Alison Grade workshop at LFA

Sending BA Students to Sundance Festival 

Attending Sundance, one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, became a reality for our BA students this year. 

LFA wanted to ensure our undergraduates had access to the pinnacle of  

independent filmmaking, where they could witness the latest trends firsthand, network with industry professionals, and gain insights into filmmaking's creative and business aspects. 

We knew that this opportunity to attend Sundance wasn't just about watching films; it was about understanding the pulse of the industry, learning from filmmaking pioneers and discovering the power of storytelling in its purest form.  

Our students returned inspired, motivated, and armed with a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed in the competitive landscape of cinema. 

MA Filmmaking Students at Raindance: Nurturing Future Filmmakers 

For our MA Filmmaking students, the journey continued with a trip to Raindance, Europe’s leading independent film festival.  

This experience was designed to immerse our postgraduates into a melting pot of creativity, innovation, and international perspectives.  

At Raindance, it's all about exploration, from avant-garde filmmaking techniques to engaging in lively discussions on industry trends, LFA knows that this is the place where connections are forged between global filmmakers and distributors.  

Notable events include the Raindance Indie Film Forum, offering 25 sessions on topics such as AI in filmmaking, funding, sales and distribution, and sustainable film production 

Our commitment to sending MA Filmmaking students to Raindance wasn't just about exposure—it was about fostering a global mindset and nurturing their artistic vision. With such a diverse and talented cohort, we knew this would be an opportunity unlike any other, leaving our students feeling enriched. 

With a deeper appreciation for diverse storytelling, equipped with the knowledge to push boundaries in their cinematic endeavours, we can't wait to see the lasting impact on our MAF's. 

London Screenwriters Festival: Empowering MA Screenwriters 

We also empowered our MA screenwriters by sending them to the London Screenwriters Festival 2024.  

This event provided a platform for our students to network with industry professionals, with over 100 workshops to attend covering scriptwriting techniques and more, enabling them to gain insights into the art and business of screenwriting.  

We left feeling good after pitching and left our comfort zone.

Anna Haig

It proved a crucial opportunity for them to refine their craft and prepare for successful careers in screenwriting. 

To hear more on this check out our previous blog here

LFA Screenwriters sat waiting for a workshop

Workshop: Getting Started with Freelancing in Film and TV 

In addition to festival experiences, we understand the importance of practical skills in today’s economy. Our Alison Grade led workshop, "Getting Started with Freelancing in Film and TV," was tailored specifically for MA students.  

Led by an industry professional and seasoned freelancer, this workshop covered everything from navigating contracts and negotiations to building a portfolio and marketing oneself effectively. 

Freelancing offers unparalleled flexibility and opportunities for creativity but demands business understanding and resilience.  

Alison knows her stuff! She combines practical steps with the essential encouragement necessary for success as a freelancer. The session was full of resources, and you get the sense that Alison herself lives the freelance principles that she teaches. 

Blaine Marcano

 

Our workshop equipped the students in attendance with the essential tools and strategies to thrive as freelancers in the competitive realm of film and television.  

By demystifying the freelance landscape and providing practical insights, we empower our students to embark on successful freelance careers with confidence. 

To hear more on this check out our previous blog here

Alison Grade leading an LFA workshop

Empowering Tomorrow’s Filmmakers 

At LFA, preparing students for the film and television industry is not just a curriculum—it’s a commitment to excellence and innovation.  

By sending our BA students to Sundance, MA students to Raindance and the London Screenwriters Festival, alongside practical workshops like "Getting Started with Freelancing in Film and TV," we ensure that our graduates enter the industry equipped with both the artistic vision and the practical skills needed to succeed. 

As we continue to evolve and adapt to the ever-changing filmmaking landscape, our goal remains unchanged: to nurture the next generation of storytellers, filmmakers, and industry leaders.  

Together, we shape the future of cinema—one student at a time.