Specialist Acting for Camera CPD at New College Durham

Jordan and Ellie from Knock & Nash recently delivered a bespoke Acting for Camera CPD intensive for the Performing Arts team at New College Durham, supporting the college’s expanding screen performance provision within its revalidated FdA in Performance Practice.

Designed specifically for educators with backgrounds in theatre and dance performance, the intensive focused on developing industry-relevant screen acting pedagogy through practical actor training, camera literacy, and simulated professional workflow.

Structured as a conservatoire-style practical training day, the workshop explored the technical and performative distinctions between stage and screen, introducing participants to key areas including framing, eye lines, continuity, shot adaptation, rehearsal methodology, and on-camera performance technique.

Across the day, staff engaged in a carefully sequenced programme of practical exercises and rehearsal processes, including:

• Framing and performance calibration for camera

• Mark hitting and eye line discipline

• Continuity and internal thought tracking

• Rehearsal-to-shoot workflows

• Facilitated and staff-led scene direction

The afternoon sessions culminated in participants directing and shooting scripted scenes independently, applying the morning’s technical work within a professionalised on-set environment.

Jordan from Knock & Nash said:

“Our objective with CPD is to equip educators with a rigorous practical framework for delivering contemporary screen performance training within further and higher education contexts. We’re interested in developing camera literacy, professional workflow understanding, and actor training methodologies that can be embedded directly into curriculum delivery.”

The workshop formed part of New College Durham’s wider commitment to strengthening screen acting opportunities for students and expanding staff expertise within contemporary performance training.

Feedback from the teaching team reflected both the professional relevance of the training and its immediate application within the college environment.

Lisa Petrie, Performing Arts Lecturer at New College Durham, described the experience as:

“Fantastic. Relaxed, enjoyable and very informative.”

Reflecting on the long-term impact of the training, she added:

“I have more confidence now giving advice and guidance that is industry relevant for self-tapes and preparing for auditions.”

Lecturer, Faye Cunningham, highlighted the bespoke nature of the intensive and the responsiveness of the delivery:

“The training was informal yet intimate. The facilitators were outstanding, taking the time to get to know the participants and understand what we wanted from the training. The content was then structured to meet our needs. I felt inspired.”

She also noted the significance of the CPD in shaping future curriculum delivery at the college:

“We will now feel confident enough to offer a screen induction project at the college.”

Karen Milne, Head of Training, praised both the atmosphere and impact of the day:

“All three staff were really excited about the CPD they took part in and they had a real buzz which is fantastic. They do work very hard supporting the students and I am sure you could tell are all very enthusiastic so it has been great being able to make an investment in their skills. Thanks again for this workshop.”

For Knock & Nash, partnerships like this represent an important part of developing stronger bridges between professional screen practice and contemporary performing arts education.

As screen performance continues to become an increasingly vital component of actor training, bespoke CPD provision enables institutions to build staff confidence, strengthen curriculum relevance, and provide students with training that reflects current industry expectations.

To learn more about Knock & Nash’s bespoke Screen Acting CPD intensives, industry training, and educational partnerships, get in touch at hello@knockandnash.co.uk.