Level 2: Developing Filmmaking Certificates being earned.

Students across our Film Academies are currently being assessed for their Level 2: Developing Filmmaking certificate. Our Producers are looking for understanding and practical application of core filmmaking techniques while their productions are mid-flow. The timing is intentional. Real filmmaking doesn’t pause for exams, so neither do we. What’s striking is how calmly they’re meeting the challenge. These surprise assessments aren’t tripping them up; they’re revealing just how deeply they understand the craft.

Whether identifying shot types on the fly, explaining three-point lighting while the gaffer resets a lamp, or reframing a scene with clear intent, they’re displaying knowledge that feels lived rather than memorised. The pressure of an active set is bringing to the surface something essential: their confidence isn’t an act. This is knowledge that is earned through doing the work, week after week and term after term, in real production conditions.

All students complete the Level 1: Understanding Filmmaking certificate over the course of their first few terms at Film Academy and then proceed on to Level 2. The programme was launched just over a year ago with direction and input from the Access NFTS team, the outreach and inclusion programme from the National Film and Television School. Those students being awared their Level 2 in January will then move on to Level 3.