BFI FILM ACADEMY
SOUND & SOUND DESIGN RESIDENTIAL
DISCOVER THE POWER OF SOUND IN FILM
A seven-day creative residential in Cornwall for emerging filmmakers aged 18–22.
Ever wondered how sound transforms a film? How a single sound effect can build tension, how music changes emotion, or how a soundtrack can bring an entire world to life?
Join us in Cornwall for an immersive week exploring the art and craft of sound for film, led by experienced screen industry professionals.
Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, sound designer, musician, podcaster or simply curious about the creative possibilities of sound, this is an opportunity to experiment, learn and make something extraordinary.
THE EXPERIENCE
Over seven residential days, you'll get hands-on with professional equipment, explore creative approaches to storytelling and learn from people working across film, television, audio production and immersive media.
You'll discover how sound is recorded, created, manipulated and mixed, from the first recording on location to the final soundtrack.
The programme is free for participants and combines practical workshops, masterclasses, creative challenges, screenings, and industry conversations, with plenty of opportunities to meet other young creatives.
"BFI Film Academy was one of the most important experiences I’ve ever had and I think I’d be on a totally different career path now if it wasn’t for that.”Charlotte Regan, director Scrapper and Mint
WHAT YOU'LL EXPLORE
Sound Recording:
Get hands-on with microphones, mixers and professional recording equipment. Learn the techniques used to capture sound on set.
Podcasting & Audio Storytelling:
Explore interviews, documentary sound and the creative possibilities of telling stories through audio.
Music for Film:
Discover how composers and sound designers use music to create atmosphere, emotion and meaning.
Foley & Sound Effects:
Create your own sound effects, record dialogue and build the soundtrack for a scene.
Field Recording:
Head outdoors to capture the sounds of Cornwall and explore how sound creates a sense of place.
Immersive & Spatial Audio:
Experiment with 360-degree sound, immersive environments and emerging technologies.
Post-Production & Mixing:
Bring everything together, edit your recordings and develop a finished piece to share at our end-of-course showcase.
MORE THAN A TRAINING COURSE
This isn't just about learning technical skills. It's about discovering your creative voice, meeting people who share your interests and understanding where your skills could take you.
Throughout the residential, you'll have opportunities to:
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Learn directly from experienced industry practitioners.
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Collaborate with other young filmmakers and creatives.
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Explore different careers and roles in the screen industries.
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Attend screenings, talks and informal networking activities.
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Develop practical work for your portfolio.
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Receive constructive feedback and individual mentoring.
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Build confidence, professional skills and industry connections.
You'll also receive follow-up support after the residential to help you explore your next steps.
WHO CAN APPLY?
We're looking for curious, enthusiastic young people aged 18–22 from across the UK who want to explore sound and sound design for screen storytelling.
You might already be making films, recording music, creating podcasts or experimenting with sound. Or you might be completely new to the field.
You don't need professional experience, industry contacts or formal qualifications to be interested in this opportunity.
We particularly welcome interest from young people who are not in full-time education and those who face barriers to accessing specialist training, including people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, disabled and neurodivergent creatives, and young people from rural and underrepresented communities.
We're interested in your curiosity, creativity and willingness to learn.
WHEN & WHERE?
Location: Cornwall, UK
Dates: March 2027, exact dates to be confirmed
Duration: Seven-day residential, plus online preparation and follow-up support
Age: 18–22 | Places: Up to 30 participants
The programme will bring together young creatives from across the country for an intensive and collaborative learning experience in Cornwall.
We will consider access requirements and potential financial barriers as part of the recruitment process, with further information about available support to follow.
REGISTER YOUR INTEREST
Applications for our first Sound & Sound Design Residential will open soon.
Register your interest to be among the first to hear about confirmed dates, programme details, eligibility, costs and how to apply.
For questions about the programme or accessibility, and to register your interest,
Contact (put BFI FILM ACADEMY in the Subject) info@mormediacharity.org
ABOUT THE PROGRAMME
The Sound & Sound Design Residential is delivered by Mor Media Charity, the organisation behind Cornwall Film Festival, as part of its Education & Training programme.
With over 20 years' experience in film exhibition, creative education and supporting emerging talent, Mor Media connects young people with opportunities to explore the screen industries, develop their skills and build creative careers.
The residential is part of BFI Film Academy Training Courses, supported by the BFI with funding from the National Lottery, providing specialist training and opportunities for young people to explore careers in the UK screen industries.
MOR MEDIA CHARITY | OPENING DOORS TO THE CREATIVE WORLD
About BFI National Lottery funding Since the very first National Lottery draw in 1994, more than £50 billion for good causes has been raised directly through National Lottery ticket sales, funding more than 700,000 projects. As a recipient of National Lottery funding, it is important to publicly acknowledge the source of this funding ensuring that those engaging with your work recognise the value and benefit of this unique Good Cause funding.