Screen Academy Scotland, established in 2005, is a prestigious collaboration between Edinburgh Napier University and Edinburgh College of Art, representing one of the UK’s three centres of excellence in film practice education. Opened by then First Minister of Scotland Jack McConnell in August 2005, the academy operates under the motto “Original. Inventive. International. Film.” and serves over 600 students at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. As a Creative Skillset Film Academy and full member of CILECT, the institution has established itself as Scotland’s premier center for practice-based film and television higher education, with distinguished patrons including Sir Sean Connery, Brian Cox, and Dame Judi Dench.
Founded in 2005 through the strategic collaboration of Edinburgh Napier University and Edinburgh College of Art, Screen Academy Scotland built upon the existing film education foundations of both institutions, including Napier’s combined photography and film undergraduate program that launched Cannes prizewinner Lynne Ramsay on her directorial journey. The academy’s first Director, Robin MacPherson FRSA, is a BAFTA-nominated producer and former Development Executive for Scottish Screen, who now serves as Professor of Screen Media at Edinburgh Napier University and Director of its Institute for Creative Industries. In 2006, the academy expanded with a new Production Centre opened by Napier Honorary Graduate Tilda Swinton, cementing its commitment to providing cutting-edge facilities for practical film education.
Screen Academy Scotland has established itself as a global leader in film education through its international ENGAGE programme, funded by the EU MEDIA programme
since 2007. This innovative writer, director, and producer development initiative operates in collaboration with the National Film School of Ireland, Baltic Film and Media School in Estonia, and Aalto University in Finland. In 2011, the programme expanded further with EU MEDIA MUNDUS funding to include partnerships with non-EU countries including Canada, China, and India, demonstrating the academy’s commitment to fostering international filmmaking talent.
As one of only three UK centres of excellence recognized by Creative Skillset and a full member of CILECT since 2008, Screen Academy Scotland maintains the highest standards in film education. The academy regularly hosts masterclasses and guest lectures by prominent industry figures including ‘Trainspotting’ and ’28 Days Later’ producers Andrew MacDonald and Iain Smith, as well as international directors, providing students with direct access to current industry practices and professional networking opportunities.
Students and graduates of Screen Academy Scotland have achieved remarkable success on the international stage, with films screened at prestigious festivals including Venice, Kolkata, Tribeca, and Beijing. The academy’s excellence in screenwriting education is particularly notable, with students winning the Page Screenwriting Awards Gold Prize for Short Film in three of four consecutive years (2007-2010). Recent achievements include Chico Pereira’s feature documentary ‘Pablo’s Winter’ winning Best Student Documentary at IDFA in 2012 and the President’s Award at the Full Frame Festival in 2013.
The academy’s commitment to bridging education and industry is exemplified by its distinguished board of patrons and regular industry engagement. With Sir Sean Connery, Brian Cox, and Dame Judi Dench as patrons, and board members including producer Iain Smith, Screen Academy Scotland provides students with unparalleled access to industry expertise. The institution also offers professional development through summer schools such as ‘The Soundtrack’ in partnership with industry training organizations, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for professional careers in film and television.
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