class of 2024

WILDLIFE FILM SCHOOL

The Botswana Wildlife Film School offers sponsored training in wildlife production, aligning with international standards upheld by renowned natural history units, fostering excellence in wildlife filmmaking.

APPLICATIONS CLOSE 17h00 17 MAY 2024

camera crew
class of 2024

WILDLIFE FILM SCHOOL

The Botswana Wildlife Film School trains individuals in wildlife production, aligning with international standards upheld by renowned natural history units, fostering excellence in wildlife filmmaking.

APPLICATIONS CLOSE 17h00 17 May 2024

An immersive, educational experience like no other…

The Wildlife Film School will provide Batswana students with a world-class 25-day training programme, equipping them to research, script, film and edit wildlife documentaries – either on their own or as part of a career path. In this initial year of the three-year project, 80 Batswana students will be granted the opportunity to participate, and it is our hope and belief that this school will change the trajectory of their lives.

We will assist local creatives to harness their talent and create employment opportunities through three levels of courses – beginners (for those new to the industry), intermediate (for those with some experience in television and film) and advanced (for seasoned professionals with at least five years of experience).

From the beginning, we have chosen to operate differently, taking both the experience of the international faculty and the product on offer to the next level. The most unique aspect of this course is the combination of a professional venue, current state-of-the-art camera equipment, highly experienced ‘in the trade’ and Emmy, BAFTA and Oscar award-winning faculty, and the opportunity to work in an unmatched, spectacular big five wilderness area.

lions

Incredible facilities...

The school is based on the banks of the mighty Chobe River. Although the students may be in one of the world’s greatest wilderness areas, modern technology enhances the experience and improves efficiency. The course is specifically created to facilitate the development of those who have set their hearts on becoming wildlife filmmakers. They should have an abiding passion for the natural world, and its associated subjects including fauna and flora, conservation, ethology and the environment in general.

The modules provided will include unmissable content on research, script writing, audio, exceptional cinematography, professional editing and grading, and “the business of television” for all course levels. Talks will include how to stand out from others when selling your proposal, tips on finding a platform once you have a documentary, and the art of pitching further distinguish this school from many others. The pure focus on wildlife ensures that the syllabus is tailored to those who will be entering this field. Beyond the standard syllabus, elements of wildlife ethics, animal behaviour, tracking skills, and much more will be present in the day-to-day activities. This all allows for an unmatched, exceptional experience, where students are introduced to the realities of wildlife filmmaking.

The challenges, the deadlines, the highs and lows, will all be a part of the learning curve, mirroring ‘real life’ situations that will be encountered in the industry. This school will create a group of graduates that are not simply academic, but well-equipped to operate in the everyday realities of the current wildlife film industry.

An immersive, educational experience like no other…

camera crew

The Wildlife Film School will provide Batswana students with a world-class 25-day training programme, equipping them to research, script, film and edit wildlife documentaries – either on their own or as part of a career path. In this initial year of the three-year project, 80 Batswana students will be granted the opportunity to participate, and it is our hope and belief that this school will change the trajectory of their lives.

We will assist local creatives to harness their talent and create employment opportunities through three levels of courses – beginners (for those new to the industry), intermediate (for those with some experience in television and film) and advanced (for seasoned professionals with at least five years of experience).

From the beginning, we have chosen to operate differently, taking both the experience of the international faculty and the product on offer to the next level. The most unique aspect of this course is the combination of a professional venue, current state-of-the-art camera equipment, highly experienced ‘in the trade’ and Emmy, BAFTA and Oscar award-winning faculty, and the opportunity to work in an unmatched, spectacular big five wilderness area.

Incredible facilities...

The school is based on the banks of the mighty Chobe River. The venue has excellent amenities, and lectures take place in air-conditioned conference facilities with readily available Wi-Fi. So, although the students may be in one of the world’s greatest wilderness areas, modern technology enhances the experience and improves efficiency. The course is specifically created to facilitate the development of those who have set their hearts on becoming wildlife filmmakers. They should have an abiding passion for the natural world, and its associated subjects including fauna and flora, conservation, ethology and the environment in general.

The modules provided will include unmissable content on research, script writing, audio, exceptional cinematography, professional editing and grading, and “the business of television” for all course levels. Talks will include how to stand out from others when selling your proposal, tips on finding a platform once you have a documentary, and the art of pitching further distinguish this school from many others. The pure focus on wildlife ensures that the syllabus is tailored to those who will be entering this field. Beyond the standard syllabus, elements of wildlife ethics, animal behaviour, tracking skills, and much more will be present in the day-to-day activities. This all allows for an unmatched, exceptional experience, where students are introduced to the realities of wildlife filmmaking.

The challenges, the deadlines, the highs and lows, will all be a part of the learning curve, mirroring ‘real life’ situations that will be encountered in the industry. This school will create a group of graduates that are not simply academic, but well-equipped to operate in the everyday realities of the current wildlife film industry.

Our Programmes

beginner's course

Beginner's Course

Little to no previous film experience is required for the beginner's course. A working knowledge of the basics of computers is imperative, together with a good understanding of English and a passion for wildlife.

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intermediate course

Intermediate Course

Some previous film experience (research/scripting/audio/

filming/editing) is required for the intermediate course. A working knowledge of the basics of computers is imperative, together with a good understanding of English.

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advanced course

Advanced Course

The advanced course has been created for those experienced individuals in any of the relevant fields such as scripting, cinematography, editing, and more already in the industry who wish to hone their skills and broaden their repertoire.

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Wild Beginnings...

Our Beginner's Course

This course is a hands-on, practical introduction to filmmaking which enables complete novices, or simply those interested in this field as career. By the end of the course, beyond the knowledge and experience gained, students will know enough be able to choose a discipline of their preference as well (e.g. scripting, cinematography or editing) and will be able to enter the film industry.


01 June – 26 June 2024

25 June – 20 July 2024

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Beyond Basics...

Our Intermediate Course

This is a deeper dive into filmmaking, created for those who have worked in the film and television industry for any period of time. It enhances the student’s understanding of those disciplines they have not yet experienced, whilst at the same time building on prior learning.


19 July – 13 August 2024

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Expert Expeditions...

Our Advanced Course

The third and final level course focuses on advanced skills for creating outstanding documentaries, emphasizing creativity, unique subject matter, and an innovative approach. Tailored course content includes professional editing, grading, scriptwriting, and cinematography. Cinematography students work with the latest cutting-edge 8K cameras, and all the students will learn from Emmy, BAFTA, and Oscar-winning experts, gaining invaluable industry training. With a heightened emphasis on teaching the business of television, students gain a comprehensive understanding of the broader industry, preparing for global entertainment careers and pitching and selling their projects.


12 August – 6 September 2024

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FAQs

Can I attend more than one course per year?

No. You can only attend one course a year, however, you may apply for a different course next year.

I have an idea for a show. Can I present it to someone?

You can't present it to someone on this platform, however, all our courses teach the business of television where you would get the skills and strategy to know how to package and pitch your show. In addition to the courses, some of the masterclasses will teach unique aspects of this process so sign up to be notified about when these would take place.

Can I attend any of the courses if I am not a Motswana?

Unfortunately not. These courses are for Botswana citizens only.

Is there an age limit for attending any of the courses?

You must be older than 18, and there is no upper age limit.

How much does it cost to enrol in a course?

The courses are at no cost. Please see eligibility documents for further information.

How do I contact someone regarding the courses?

If you have a question that the content on this site doesn’t answer then you can write to [email protected]

Will I be sharing accommodation at the Wildlife Film School?

Yes – all students will be in shared accommodation. You will be sharing with someone of the same gender.

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