The University has joined forces with the UK’s leading organisation for film and moving image, the British Film Institute (BFI), giving selected students access to hundreds of films through BFI Player and bespoke masterclasses offering unique insights into the industry.

The partnership will offer all students from the University’s School of Creative Arts and Industries (SCANDI) the opportunity to attend masterclasses delivered by industry experts, on topics such as pitching, film and games, and sustainable film practice. The workshops will give students opportunities to learn from the speakers’ wealth of workplace experience.

Students and staff from SCANDI will also have access to the award-winning BFI Player. A streaming service showing critically acclaimed classic, cult and archive films, including specialist collections curated by the BFI. Collections include LGBTQIA+, visionary directors, and stories that illuminate differing viewpoints and perspectives. Access to BFI Player will enhance resources available to students and staff, supporting study, research and a greater appreciation and knowledge of film.

Access to BFI Player is now available, colleagues and students should visit our website for instructions on how to redeem their subscription.

Dr Lynnette Turner, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Education, said: “We are excited to announce this new partnership with the BFI and look forward to the opportunities it will bring to our students and staff.

“Access to BFI Player and masterclasses will open the world of film to our students, allowing them to dive deeper into film and enhance their education experience. As well as giving them access to industry experts that will aid the development of their skills and employability within the creative industries.”

Simone Pyne, Head of Enterprise and Learning Partnerships at the BFI, commented: “We are delighted to support Canterbury Christ Church University students, enhancing their studies with masterclasses and the wealth of cinema and archive on BFI Player. Gaining a greater understanding about the visual power of storytelling within education is increasingly important and through this partnership we can help open doors to career development opportunities in industry.”

Professor Alastair Borthwick, Head of the School of Creative Arts and Industries, said: “Colleagues from the Film area in the School of Creative Arts and Industries have benefitted from collaboration with the BFI over many years, including archival work. To formalise this connection by way of the new partnership enables us to share the benefits that have accrued already, as well as those about to be launched with our students and staff alike, including staff outside of Film (such as Games Design and Media Production). We look forward with great excitement to the new opportunities that lie ahead.”

Explore the range of courses we offer by visiting the School of Creative Arts and Industries webpage.