Master the Art of Film at London’s Top Accredited Independent Film School!
We are excited to announce our move to a larger, purpose-built campus in North West London at Park Royal, opening in September 2026. This new location represents a significant step forward for the school, offering expanded teaching spaces, enhanced production facilities, and a more collaborative environment for both students and staff. Located in Park Royal – one of London’s most dynamic creative and commercial districts – the campus benefits from excellent transport connections, close proximity to major studios and media businesses, and easy access to central London. This move reflects Raindance’s continued growth and its commitment to delivering industry-focused film education in a vibrant, creative setting.
DISCOVER.
BE DISCOVERED
Raindance is an accredited film school with a fierce independent spirit. We have been teaching both novice and experienced filmmakers since 1992. Our ethos is centered on independence, and our courses are designed to help you develop your skills your way, in your own style.
The organisation was founded in 1992 by Elliot Grove as a thought experiment: Can you make a film with no money, no training, and no experience? Based in the heart of London, Raindance combines the Raindance Film Festival, hands-on industry-focused filmmaking, screenwriting and acting courses.
In October 1993, the Raindance Film Festival was born, premiering at London’s Prince Charles Cinema and Ciné Lumière. The festival now runs annually in June in London’s West End, showcasing groundbreaking films from emerging and established filmmakers worldwide.
In 1998, Raindance created the British Independent Film Awards (BIFA), an annual celebration of the best UK independent films of the year, held every December. Past winners include My Name is Joe, Billy Elliot, Vera Drake, This Is England, Slumdog Millionaire, Aftersun, and All of Us Strangers.
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OUR COURSES
HND FILMMAKING
[LEADING TO BA (HON’S) DEGREE]
This is a full-time practical course for those who wish to pursue a career in the film industry such as screenwriting, directing, producing or cinematography. The HND Level 5 Diploma is a vocational qualification that is equivalent to the first two years of a UK university degree.
Many people will advise that the best film school is on-set experience. This program ensures you can get that while also being supported academically and professionally.
HND ACTING
[LEADING TO BA (HON’S) DEGREE]
This is a full-time practical course for those who wish to pursue a career in acting for screen and/or filmmaking. The HND Level 5 Diploma is a vocational qualification that is equivalent to the first two years of a UK university degree.
Having come from a couple of years at a traditional film school, the program was a breath of creative and independent fresh air.
HND DIRECTING
[LEADING TO BA (HON’S) DEGREE]
This is a full-time practical course for those who wish to pursue a career in directing for the screen. The HND Level 5 Diploma is a vocational qualification that is equivalent to the first two years of a UK university degree.
HND SCREENWRITING
[LEADING TO BA (HON’S) DEGREE]
Screenwriters are the foundation of the filmmaking process. This is a full-time practical course for those who wish to pursue a career in screenwriting. The HND Level 5 Diploma is a vocational qualification that is equivalent to the first two years of a UK university degree.
TOP-UP BA [HONS] IN FILM & PERFORMING ARTS
This is a one year full-time University level course for those who wish to pursue a career in acting for screen and/or filmmaking. This course requires the completion of our Level 5 HND programme (or equivalent).
I was nervous when I started being an older student but the staff and students at Raindance has shown me that no matter what age you are you can achieve your dreams and Raindance is the perfect place to study filmmaking for all ages.
MA FILMMAKING
This film degree is tailored to every student: you set your own goals, develop your own learning activities, and get the support that you need from our faculty. This course is delivered online through our London campus.
It was the toughest thing I’ve ever done. But the support I got from the Raindance MA means that I’m now a screenwriter. I’m now a filmmaker.
MA SCREENWRITING
The MA in Screenwriting with Raindance will give you the understanding of the craft skills and awareness of the industry that are necessary to sustain a successful screenwriting career. During this programme, you will develop a portfolio of work, and you will acquire a range of competencies to enable you to navigate the ever-evolving film and TV landscape.
I met and retained network contacts with professionals of all levels in the industry during and through the course. I now have a resource of practitioners in the life cycle of filmmaking who are practically my virtual team.
C. Obi, United Kingdom
OUR RENOWNED SHORT COURSES
Take advantage of our renowned short courses, in everything from writing to acting, production to finance, and much more!
Raindance opens the door to the world
of independent film and filmmaking.
WHAT YOU GET AS A RAINDANCE STUDENT
Flexibility
Raindance brings you day, evening, and weekend courses to suit any schedule. It’s a beautiful thing when your goals and schedule line up!
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Validation
Whether you attend a short course or commit to a degree, your certification is validated by DeMontfort University.
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Access
You get first-dibs at Raindance’s renowned courses and networking events before anyone else!
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Exposure
Networking
Schmooze with people in the know at our networking events for students to meet industry pros.
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SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
For more information on how Raindance can train you to become the filmmaker you want to be, request a consultation with us via the form below!
