31/08/2012 - Lead body for UK film to spend £28 million

The British Film Institute (BFI) is planning to spend £28 million over the four years between 2013 and 2017 on a film education strategy designed to instil a passion for cinema in young people aged 5-19. To this end, the BFI has launched an open call for applications for a partner who can help deliver this plan. Expanding film education and learning opportunities is a key strategic aim for the BFI and is at the core of the organisation’s Future Plan for UK film, which will be launched in October.

The BFI’s proposals will accord young people the opportunity to choose and watch a wide selection of films, to make their own films, and create spaces to discuss and develop a love of film. It will ensure that schools across the UK can access information and services to support film in the classroom, fuelled by an online platform. BFI strategic partners Creative Scotland, Creative Skillset, Film Agency Wales and Northern Ireland Screen will work closely with the agency chosen to deliver the education strategy.

BFI CEO Amanda Nevill said, “My first trip to the cinema changed my life. Our ambition is that every child in the country has the opportunity to make the richness of film a central part of its lives. We’re looking for an organisation that can help us bring flair, passion, innovation and excitement into the lives of children across the UK.”