CFF Education 3

CFF Education is an umbrella programme comprised of all of the Cambridge Film Festival's various education initiatives. Below is more information about each initiative and how you can get involved. 

First Steps

A programme of volunteering, mentoring, and internship opportunities starting in the months preceding the Festival aimed at young people (particularly targeting those from disadvantaged and minoritised backgrounds via outreach) looking for practical skills in the sector that support a route to employment in the film industry.

CFF Youth Lab

The Youth Lab is a youth-led film education initiative for young people aged 16-24 designed to enhance film knowledge and networking skills. As a member, you'll connect with like-minded individuals and build industry relationships in a friendly, supportive environment. We welcome individuals from all backgrounds and provide regular film discussion groups, workshops, networking events and talks from industry professionals, along with essential career support.

Industry Day @CFF

Cambridge Film Festival has long provided great networking opportunities for filmmakers, students, and film professionals. Since 2022, we have presented CFF Industry Day, building on our previous work and formalising the Festival's networking and education aims. A day of workshops, panels, and discussions brings together partners from across the sector to benefit the filmmaking and exhibition industries. Whether you're just starting out or are already established in the industry, CFF Industry Day provides a great opportunity to create new relationships and learn new skills.  

CFF Reel Voices

Introducing an important new mentoring scheme for emerging film journalists and critics.

CFF Reel Voices is dedicated to helping young people develop film journalism skills through tailored mentoring from industry professionals, workshops, and one-to-one support. Alongside learning about film criticism and improving a range of related skills, CFF Reel Voices provides early access to Festival content and screenings during the Festival itself. Each year, the participants produce film reviews that will be published on CFF’s website and social media.