The next generation of cinematographers gathered at the University of Lincoln last month to take part in a new course, led by the British Film Institute (BFI). The initiative brought together 30 ambitious 16-to-19-year-olds for an intensive, hands-on week of training.

The course was spearheaded by filmmaker and lecturer Jack Shelbourn, who explained the course’s “learning by doing” approach. He said, “The focus was on listening to professionals and being able to walk away with hands-on skills to bolster [the students’] CV and employability. Each one is now ready to step onto set as either a camera trainee, grip trainee, or trainee spark.”

For many students, the course provided a taste of what their future in filmmaking might look like.

Izzy Kearns, 18, credits the course with their decision to enrol at the University of Lincoln. “I’ve met some really lovely people, and it was a pleasure meeting Jack Shelbourn, who will be my future lecturer in September.”

Jack Shelbourn was supported by Tony Daniels in setting up the course, which included talks, seminars and workshops.

Iona Dorsett, 17, from Leeds Art University, is studying an extended diploma in creative practice at Leeds Art University. She said she enjoyed the course’s professional atmosphere. “It’s a lot more professional because we have people from the industry coming in to speak to us,” she explained.

Sashi T. Kissoon, a director of cinematography who worked as a 2nd unit director on Netflix’s 3 Body Problem hosted talks.

Steve Young and Cody Nichols from the university assisted from a technical perspective and lecturer Chris Greybe joined on the final day to deliver a class on colour grading.

Actors Steve Gillard and Laura Turner offered their talents to allow the students to practice filming and directing.

Dorset’s favourite moment was a party scene they filmed for a short movie. “It was really fun to do that,” she said, adding that she’s now considering a filmmaking foundation year.

Daniel Meikle, 16, recently finished his GCSEs. He came to the course knowing he wanted a career in cinematography. He said, “I’ve learned a lot about how the industry actually works and how different roles on set interact.” His highlight was also making a short film, “It was a lot of fun,” he said, “I think we’re going to edit it soon and it’s going to look really cool and it’s going to win everything. All the Oscars.”