Raindance Film School

Raindance Film School grew from Raindance, an independent film organisation launched by Elliot Grove in London in 1992 as an experimental venture into low-budget, self-taught film production. In 1993 the organisation started the Raindance Film Festival, and in 1998 it created the British Independent Film Awards. Through the festival, students can screen their work next to independent cinema from around the world.

Approved by the Office for Students, the school is also a Pearson Approved Centre. Its courses are hands-on and closely tied to industry, taking in documentary, screenwriting, directing, filmmaking, acting, dance, animation and creative business. A large share are Pearson Higher National Diplomas. The BA (Hons) in Film and Performing Arts Practices, a three-year degree, pairs a Level 5 HND with a concluding top-up year that De Montfort University validates, and holders of a relevant HND can complete a one-year top-up BA. Master's degrees in filmmaking and screenwriting, likewise validated by De Montfort University, are delivered online. Windermere House, in Acton, West London, is the London campus, and BA students may also choose a four-week film project on the school's Mexico campus.

Information for International Students

Raindance Film School has UKVI Student sponsor status, so overseas students accepted onto its campus-based London programmes can receive their Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the school. Applicants to its BA (Hons) in Film and Performing Arts Practices who are non-native speakers of English must present Academic IELTS 6.0 overall, with every component at 5.5 or higher, or a comparable Cambridge or Pearson qualification. HND programmes on UCAS require IELTS 5.5.

Applicants under 21 are normally expected to hold GCSE English at grade 4 or higher, or an equivalent, plus a Level 3 qualification such as an Access to HE Diploma, A levels or a BTEC. Older candidates may enter as mature students, and significant professional experience may count towards entry through the recognition of prior learning. UCAS lists the undergraduate programmes, and the admissions team answers international questions about language and visa requirements. No pre-sessional English course, foundation year or accommodation of the school's own is advertised, so housing must be arranged separately. Subject to Home Office criteria, graduates who complete the BA while holding a Student visa may qualify for the Graduate Route.