Plans to establish a new National Film and Television School (NFTS) facility in Scotland have been backed by the Scottish Government.

Speaking at the Edinburgh International Television Festival, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced a £475,000 investment towards NFTS' plans to create a new base at BBC Scotland's Pacific Quay headquarters in Glasgow and their Dumbarton Studios.

Ms Sturgeon said: "This is an exciting development for our screen sector which is already an area of growth for Scotland. While we have excellent university and college provision for a range of screen subjects and media skills, NFTS' plans will complement and expand the training opportunities available in Scotland."

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NFTS Director, Jon Wardle, said: "The NFTS has a proud history of developing Scottish talent from its base in Beaconsfield, so we are incredibly pleased to announce the expansion of the school into Scotland and look forward to making an even greater contribution to the Scottish economy through our unparalleled reputation for delivering high-calibre, job ready graduates."

NFTS Scotland is expected to open in January 2018, with students enrolling from April 2018.

(LM)