Plans announced for UK Film Academy | News and Current Affairs | Forum

5,000 will initially be chosen for classes around the country on Saturdays and in the evenings. Up to 200 will then be selected for a residential film-making course where they will be taught the technical, business and marketing skills for a career in film.

Mr Gove said: “We have a tremendous heritage in film. The academy will play its part in helping ensure the British film industry remains competitive.”

The minister said he was especially keen for "those who don't have certain advantages" to get the opportunity to participate.

"This project should provide opportunities to young people who might otherwise miss out," he said.

The Government will provide £3m over three years, and the film academy will run all year round on Saturdays and in the evenings for 5,000 young people in local and regional centres. From those, 200 will be selected for a film-making course teaching technical, business and marketing skills.

More information will be revealed this week, but the proposal will be welcomed after plans for a screen craft academy to be built at Pinewood Studios in Buckinghamshire collapsed in January when the studio's plans to expand its site with permanent sets and up to 1,400 houses were blocked.