After many years in the industry, my experience launching and managing schools has taken me on different paths in my own career while working to help students start their own. These 35 years have been an education for me too, and I learned new things with the opening of each school. But from Palm Beach, Fla. to Burbank, Calif., and even at international academies, a few key things have remained significant to the success at every point.
I've outlined five of the most important tips for you here on the blog. They all apply to opening a film school, but many of them work across industries for other types of career schools and businesses as well.
1. The wrong location will cost you dearly!
Choose a location conveniently located near major roads and close to public transportation. It is essential to consider the needs of future students, including safety, accessibility, free parking and a space that offers easy loading for gear (ground floor or near elevators are best). Don't forget signage...it helps if prospects can find the school!
2. Who is teaching these students and future filmmakers?
Seek out stable, positive teachers with good communication skills who can connect with students from all backgrounds. Look for strong, current industry experience, academic qualifications and positive motivation. Remember, once a student enrolls in the school their primary contact will be with the teachers...so choose wisely!
3. Students are most interested in their own film, not your story idea or mine.
Offer each student the opportunity to write, shoot, direct and edit his or her own film. They are less likely to lose interest in the creative filmmaking process if they are working on their own films.
4. Longer isn't always better.
Encourage students to keep their films short. There is no need to try to re-create
Pulp Fiction or
Gone with the Wind in an entry-level filmmaking class. A five-minute film with a good storyline, interesting characters and a plot twist will be challenging enough for a first-time filmmaker. Rule of thumb is to have them keep it simple.
5. Screen all completed films at a local movie theater.
One of the most eventful (and motivating) days for new filmmakers is the first time watching their film on a big screen in a theater. I've executive produced over 350 films for first-time filmmakers and no words can describe the pure joy and excitement each student feels as the theater lights dim and the credits begin to roll. Even if it's not a film school you're running, always give your students the opportunity to showcase their finished, creative projects in front of their peers. Students will remember their screenings long after graduation.
- Jim York
