Film Hub North is once again partnering with the BBC and HETV production companies to offer placements and mentoring for Northern directors.
Northern Directors supports directors who have a creative track record in short form to take the next steps in their careers. Our next opportunity is now open, and we’re delighted to partner with the BBC and Mammoth Screen to offer two placements on Hercule, based in Liverpool.
On-set Placement
For this opportunity we’re offering two placements of two weeks each, with a weekly rate of £1,000.
On-set, participants will observe the Director during the production of a scripted drama, gaining direct exposure to the creative and technical processes involved in bringing scenes to life. Participants will see how the Director collaborates with cast and crew, manages performance and pacing, and ensures the visual and narrative integrity of each episode. This placement is observational with the opportunity to assist with minor tasks as appropriate.
Costs for travel and accommodation, where required, will be covered by Film Hub North.
The two placements will run as follows:
- Block 1 1: 1-11 September 2026
- Block 2: 2 weeks in mid-to-late October 2026 (exact dates TBC)
Dates are to be confirmed and are subject to change based on production needs. Our application form will ask you which dates you’re available for.
Block 1 and Block 2 will be based in Liverpool and surrounding area. Block 2 may have some shooting in the Derbyshire area.
Eligibility
This programme is not for brand new directors. It is for directors who already have a creative track record and dedication to building a long-term sustainable career as a director in film and television.
To be eligible for Northern Directors you must:
- Be over 18 and not in full time education
- Be based in the North of England
- Have a strong creative track record that has gained industry recognition. This must be a minimum of two director credits on BIFA or BAFTA qualified short films, or one director credit on a BFI NETWORK funded short. Participants can’t have already directed an episode of high-end television.
- Be available for the entirety of the placement dates detailed in the opportunity you apply for.
The programme is open to all who are eligible, but due to the content of the programme and production team we’re particularly interested in applications from directors from underrepresented groups and those based in Liverpool and the Wirral.
If you have any questions about eligibility please contact
bfinetwork@filmhubnorth.org.uk.
Application & Timeline
Friday 7 August: Open for applications
Wednesday 14 August, 10am: Block 1 applications close
Monday 24 August, 5pm: Block 2 applications close
Tuesday 18 August: Block 1 applicants will be notified of decisions
Tuesday 1 September: Block 2 applicants will be notified of decisions
1-11 September 2026 (inc. Saturday 5 September): Placement 1
Mid-to-late October 2026: Placement 2
All dates are subject to change.
How to apply
To apply, simply complete the online application form linked below.
The form asks you to share some information about yourself, your creative background, questions about your work to date and future goals, and requires links to previous work. All questions can be answered via video or audio if required.
All submitted applications will be reviewed by the Film Hub North team who will form a shortlist to be reviewed by the partner production company. We will then select two directors who will be offered a place on the production. There may also be interviews as part of the final selection process.
Applications close Wednesday 14 August, 10am.
