Young filmmakers from across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland are invited to develop their creativity, collaborate across borders, and create a professionally mentored short film as part of the Cinemagic Cross Border Short Film Academy 2026.
Cinemagic is delighted to announce the return of its acclaimed Cross Border Short Film Academy, offering aspiring filmmakers aged 15–18 an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience in every stage of the filmmaking process while working alongside leading industry professionals. The programme has been delivered annually by Cinemagic, bringing together young people from both sides of the border to learn, collaborate and tell stories that matter.
Supported by the Department of Education and Youth, the academy provides a unique platform for participants to explore careers in the screen industries while building friendships, confidence and practical filmmaking skills in a collaborative cross-border environment.
The programme combines industry masterclasses, script development workshops and pre-production sessions before culminating in the production of a professionally mentored short film. Participants will gain practical experience across a range of departments including directing, scriptwriting, cinematography, production design, sound, and more.
No previous filmmaking experience is required. Cinemagic is looking for enthusiastic, creative and committed young people who are eager to learn, work as part of a team and bring fresh ideas to the screen.
A Practical Route into the Screen Industries
Designed to mirror professional filmmaking workflows, the Cross Border Short Film Academy gives participants an authentic insight into how films are developed from initial concept through to production.
Throughout the programme, participants will:
- Learn directly from experienced industry professionals.
- Gain practical experience across a variety of production departments.
- Work on a professionally mentored short film set for 1 day.
- Receive an official screen credit on the completed production.
- Build friendships and creative networks with young people from across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
- Develop confidence, teamwork and communication skills in a professional creative environment.
The completed short film will be submitted to international film festivals, giving participants the opportunity to see their work showcased to audiences beyond the programme.
Applications Now Open
Applications are now open for young people aged 15–18 living in Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland.
No previous qualifications or filmmaking experience are necessary – just creativity, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
Key Dates
Deadline is Monday 27th July, Noon.
Interviews will occur from Wednesday 29th-Friday 31st July.
Programme Schedule
Wednesday 12th August (Location TBC – Banbridge*)
Thursday 20th August (Zoom)
Tuesday 15th September (Zoom)
Filming Dates
You will be split into 2 production teams and assigned 1 day on set as a trainee:
Thursday 17th September 2026 (Location TBC – Bangor*)
Friday 18th September 2026 (Location TBC – Bangor*)
The Cross Border Short Film Academy continues Cinemagic’s commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for young people to access the screen industries, regardless of background or previous experience. By encouraging collaboration across communities and borders, the programme nurtures the next generation of filmmakers while celebrating creativity, inclusion and shared storytelling.
How to Apply
Applications can be completed online. Deadline is Monday 27th July, Noon.
Interviews will occur online from Wednesday 29th-Friday 31st July for successful applicants.
Media Enquiries
Claire Shaw
Press & Marketing Officer
Cinemagic
Email: claire@cinemagic.org.uk
