TWO groups have come together to create more opportunities for students in Brighton and Hove.

BIMM (British and Irish Modern Music Institute) and BFS (Brighton Film School) have formed a new partnership.

Since 2001, Brighton Film School has provided further and higher education industry-led vocational courses for students who wish to build sustainable careers in the film and television industry.

BIMM Brighton - which was established at the same time - is equally committed to supporting young music industry professionals to gain the skills and contacts they need.

The new partnership recognises the ways in which the two industries overlap, creatively and technologically.

In this digital age, film and television practitioners require sound and music for their productions.

Likewise, musicians and composers need filmmakers and photographers to capture live performances, create digital press kits and promotional materials for their music, and to build their online visual presence.

Gary Barber, Brighton Film School creative director, said: “For the past five years, we have collaborated with BIMM to work closely with their bands and solo artists to produce music promos.

“This current year we have eight promos in production which have proven to be a great experience for both groups of students.

“BFS has grown in both reputation and quality of films produced and we now have a wide range of films selected for international festivals.

“Our graduates work in a range of roles from directors, writers, producers, camera department, gaffers, production co-ordinators and editors.

“We look forward to the exciting new partnership with BIMM and to producing many more award-winning films.”

BIMM business development and creative careers director Vaseema Hamilton said: “We know that music, film, TV and digital technologies are inextricably linked and will provide students collaborative opportunities in this exciting £4 billion global sector.

“Brighton is an ideal location to start this given its diverse creative community and digital infrastructure that can inspire students to become the next generation of creative digital professionals.”

In recent years many BIMM bands, production students and artists have collaborated with students from Brighton Film School and - as they celebrate the formalisation of the partnership - the intention is to expand on this work and create even more opportunities.

Another creative connection between BIMM’s performing arts education partner BRICTT (Brighton Institute for Theatrical Training) and BFS is already well established.

BRICTT BA (Hons) performing arts students have this year had the opportunity to take part in short films devised and produced at Brighton Film School.

BIMM colleges are now in eight creative cities and will be able to open up development potential for Brighton Film School.