Middlesex sets its sights as location for high-profile TV and film shoots

New contract announced with leading film service to use campus for productions

Middlesex University today announces an agreement with leading UK film service FilmFixer to manage filming projects at its Hendon campus and StoneX facilities. 

The move will strengthen production infrastructure in north London and support the continued growth of the Screen London Barnet initiative, a partnership between education, industry, and local government to position the Borough as a growing hub for film, television, and digital content production. 

The University has already welcomed three productions to use its facilities, while students on arts and creative industries courses have benefited from experiencing first-hand what it is like to be on a film set and see how productions are made. 

Located within London’s expanding production corridor, close to major studio hubs such as Elstree and Leavesden, Barnet is increasingly attracting high-end production activity. Middlesex University is central to this with its industry-standard studio and creative production hub at MDX Studios on its Hendon campus, and its West Stand facilities at the StoneX Stadium which includes a state-of-the-art simulated hospital. 

As the established Film Service for Barnet Council, FilmFixer is perfectly placed to extend its services to Middlesex University’s campuses and facilities. The company will act as the contact for productions filming across the University, coordinating access, permits and logistics while supporting integration between live production activity and academic programmes. 

Dr. Bendon added: “We look forward to working more with FilmFixer to bring productions to Middlesex and provide inclusive opportunities for our students as new entrants to the screen industries.”

There was a huge amount of positive feedback from Middlesex students who felt that observing and being involved in some of the productions provided a unique opportunity to develop their skills and enhance their learning. 

Third-year BA Film student James Afflatt said: “Being so close to the professional cast and crew along with professional industry standard equipment was fantastic. It gave film students like me a real-world industry experience, seeing the production of an actual film or show that will be seen by a large audience.

“Having film industries present at our University helps us grow as filmmakers as it reinforces our inspiration, shows us how it's done and makes us more determined after seeing film making first-hand.” 

Second-year BA Film student Jieun Sin, who was an extra on one of the productions, said: “It was a great honour and novel experience to witness real filmmakers working on a TV series that will be aired. As students, it's important not only to learn film theory but to understand the different roles in a real production environment. This experience has been very helpful for my studies.”

Malaika Rose, a Foundation Year BA Graphic Design student, said: “Being on set gave me a deeper insight into how productions are made and I’m now even more passionate about the subject. It made me more confident; it was so beneficial to learn about the process and be part of a collective of people with the same aspirations.”

Juan Pablo Cardenas, a Foundation Year BA Interiors student, said that while he was not planning a career in film, he sees potential in combining audio visual skills with architecture and advertising in the future. He said: “One of the best parts was getting to know the technical crew. They were incredibly kind and friendly, even taking the time to explain how things work. I also had the chance to see some famous actors up close.” 

Location manager Anna Watson recently filmed at Middlesex University alongside 20 other locations in London. She said: “The University was the most accommodating and well-organised. We worked with Dr. Helen Bendon and Daniel Sosnowski, Head of Technical and Teaching Resources, and they are a real asset to the University. Their professionalism, efficiency, and support made the entire process seamless, and I look forward to working with them again.”

Oliver Guthrie, Film Service Manager at FilmFixer, said: “Middlesex University represents a compelling proposition for the screen industries, combining studio infrastructure, specialist facilities, and access to emerging talent. We’re excited to support productions on campus and contribute to the development of Screen London Barnet.” 

Find out more about our Arts and Creative Industry courses at Middlesex University