NFTS Launches Ground-Breaking Bursary to Support Disabled Students

The National Film and Television School (NFTS) is proud to announce the launch of the NFTS Accessible Living Bursary, a transformative new initiative that will fully fund on-site, purpose-built accommodation for physically disabled students for the entire duration of their course.

Recently unveiled by acclaimed screenwriter, disability campaigner and NFTS Fellow Jack Thorne, the bursary marks a major step forward in the School’s long-term mission to remove barriers to world-class screen industry training. 

The bursary was launched at the NFTS’ annual fundraising Gala event attended by leading industry figures, where an incredible £175,000 was raised, significantly surpassing the initial £100,000 target. 

Jack Thorne commented: “Disabled people have been excluded from our industry, not just by our prejudice but also by our practice. The social model of disability states that the disabled are impaired by societal barriers, not by the impairments themselves. What the NFTS is doing here is pulling down these barriers and creating a more level playing field. It is vital and beautiful work and will change our industry for the better.”

For the first time in its history, NFTS will offer dedicated, accessible student accommodation as part of a much-needed campus expansion, with construction due to start in early 2026. For many disabled students, the lack of suitable housing close to the School’s HQ in Beaconsfield has meant enduring long commutes or being discouraged from applying altogether.

“If I’d had the option to live in purpose-built accommodation managed by the School, it would have changed everything, and I know many others who feel the same,” reflected one graduate.

The Accessible Living Bursary is not just about bricks and mortar, it’s about sending a clear message to aspiring disabled creatives: you belong at NFTS.

“I’m so thrilled that this accommodation is set to become a reality,” said Hamish Thompson, NFTS Script Development graduate and current Disability Lead. “The NFTS having accessible student accommodation on-site sends a seismic message to future students that their impairments won’t hold them back from their aspirations.”
 

"A seismic message to future students that their impairments won't hold them back from their aspirations."

The bursary forms a key pillar of the NFTS Disabled Talent Commitment, a comprehensive plan to break down the physical, cultural and structural barriers that have historically excluded disabled creatives. From inclusive recruitment and disability-confident training to the appointment of a Disability Lead, the School is embedding accessibility into every area of student life.

The NFTS is also a proud partner of the TV Access Project (TAP) and is committed to achieving full inclusion by 2030.

“We are not just expanding our campus, we are expanding what’s possible,” said NFTS Director Jon Wardle. “This bursary represents a fundamental shift in how we and the wider industry support disabled talent, and it reinforces our belief that accessibility and excellence must go hand in hand.”
 

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To learn more about the NFTS expansion and how you can support future talent trained for the screen industry go to: nfts.co.uk/our-future