Adil Ray OBE is the first Birmingham campus Patron

We are delighted to officially announce actor, comedian, radio and television presenter Adil Ray OBE has become the first Patron of our Birmingham campus and we are introducing a £30,000 scholarship in his name.

Birmingham-born Adil Ray is best known for starring in the BBC hit comedy Citizen Khan, which he created and co-wrote. Adil’s other notable roles include the hit Channel 4 drama series Ackley Bridge, Blithe Spirit with Judi Dench, and hosting Have I Got News for You. More recently, he has been a guest presenter on ITV’s Good Morning Britain. Adil also is one of the NFTS board of governors.

As a Patron, Adil Ray is recognised for his contributions to film, television, the arts and his passion for diversity. The film school, in turn, will benefit from Adil’s accumulated knowledge of the film and television industry, his passion for education and his belief in the power of access, participation and promoting equal opportunities.

Speaking after becoming Patron, Adil said:

“I am incredibly proud to be a Patron. This school is an incredible asset to the Midlands. I want to help students find their voices and instil in them the self-belief and motivation needed for a successful career. We share a passion for helping shape a new generation of filmmakers, enabling diverse young creative minds to flourish.

“I want families to know that things are changing in the industry and that a career in film and television is possible; even if you haven’t been reflected on-screen while growing up, it is achievable. The Birmingham campus is on my doorstep, so I’m expecting to be involved as much as I can.”

We are also offering the Adil Ray OBE Scholarship worth nearly £30,000 to one lucky student who will have all their tuition fees paid. Adil Ray will have the opportunity to review the shortlist of candidates and devise the scholarship criteria with the College Principal Hannah Stevenson.

Commenting on the Adil Ray OBE Scholarship, he said:

“I am honoured to lend my name to the Birmingham campus Scholarship. I am committed to nurturing talent from within the region, especially from under-represented communities. I hope the Adil Ray OBE Scholarship will open the door for someone who might think the film and television industry is closed to them.

“Growing up in Birmingham, I would sit in my room thinking up ideas for comedy sketches and television shows. I would travel past the local television studios on the school bus, never thinking it was an option for me. I am pleased to say the industry is beginning to change. Still, we need to do more to enable those with financial or social barriers to accessing higher education, training and support to make the industry vastly more inclusive.”