22
June
We've offered this opportunity exclusively to a select group of school and college partners, and only a maximum of 40 students can attend – if you’re reading this now, congratulations, you’ve been nominated by your teacher to take part.
Why? Your teacher has nominated you because they believe you have something special: creativity, passion and the potential to go far in film.
Over five days, you’ll work with professional producer Craig Conway (Trash TV 2025, No Way Home 2023), get hands-on behind the camera, and bring your ideas to life in your very own short film. Finishing the week off in true style at an invite-only film premiere. So, are you ready to take your seat on set?
What happens at Sunderland Film School?
Over the five days, you'll be immersed in a hands-on short film production experience, guided by professional producer Craig Conway and supported by University of Sunderland students and staff.
The week will begin with expert-led sessions covering how to produce a short film, explore successful film genres, and work effectively with actors.
Filming will take place across a range of locations, including the Virtual Production studio, classrooms, corridors, and outdoor settings, offering a rich and varied backdrop for storytelling. The experience will continue with post-production workshops focused on editing, colour grading, and adding graphics and titles to enhance the final films.
Celebrate your film! A screening, featuring an industry talk from Craig Conway and guests, a showcase of student work, and a gathering of staff and supporters to celebrate the creativity and collaboration of everyone involved.
As part of the Film School experience, students will also get the chance to explore what it’s like to study film at university, with exciting opportunities to discover the campus, connect with current students, and get a real taste of university life.
What do we need from you?
We need your enthusiasm and commitment to the event. We need you to be available all day, each day, for the entirety of Sunderland Film School.
The deadline to accept your place at our exclusive Sunderland Film School is 9 January 2026.
On accepting your place, you will get access to a number of events:
Film School Unlocked
The official launch will take place online on Wednesday, 22 January 2026, 5–6pm. We'll reveal the film genre and more detailed information about the week.
Screening
An invitation to a screening at the University.
Spotlight On!
A pre-Film School round table will be held on campus at the University in spring 2026, where students will meet staff, tour facilities, and receive a script and the final brief for the week.