NFTS To Open Hub In Leeds

The National Film and Television School (NFTS) has announced it is to open a hub in Leeds following the successful opening of NFTS Scotland, which is based in Glasgow.

NFTS Leeds is part of the School’s ongoing strategy to support the growth of film and television production outside London and is supported by NFTS Platinum Partner, Channel 4 whose new HQ is to be based in the city as well as ITV, who also have a production base in the City, BFI, Screen Yorkshire and ScreenSkills.

NFTS Leeds, which will operate from a number of spaces across the city including dedicated space at ITV, will provide specialist training to meet the growing needs of film and television production in the area. NFTS Leeds is expected to open in January 2020 with 150 students expected to enrol within the first year. Courses will mirror those offered by NFTS Scotland and will include three-month certificate courses; twelve month full-time and part-time diploma courses; and short courses to provide ‘Continuing Professional Development’ (CPD) in key film, television and games craft disciplines.

Yorkshire based screen industries are growing faster than anywhere else in the UK according to data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS)*. An ONS study revealed that between 2009-2015, employment across the film and TV industries in the region grew 88% against a UK average of 32%. This trend has continued with regular TV productions such as Emmerdale based in the area as well as TV series including Ackley Bridge (Channel 4), Gentleman Jack (BBC), The Innocents (Netflix), Victoria (ITV) and feature films, Phantom Thread and Darkest Hour.

Channel 4 CEO, Alex Mahon said: "It's fantastic that NFTS is opening a hub in Leeds, the new home of Channel 4's National HQ. We've seen a significant influx of creative organisations committing to Leeds since we made our announcement and the addition of NFTS will undoubtedly create more opportunities and attract further investment. By working closely with the NFTS and other partners such as Leeds City Region, Screen Yorkshire and regional production companies, we can nurture local talent to meet the demands of Leeds as a creative powerhouse."

MD of ITV Studios, Julian Bellamy said: "We are delighted to be working with NFTS on their new hub in Leeds. Whilst increasing its global presence, ITV Studios is proud of its UK heritage and have long held a production base in Leeds. We look forward to continuing our work with the NFTS and other partners to support the growth of talent and meet the increasing demand for a broad range of behind-the-camera skills."