AFDA Expands National Footprint With New Hatfield Campus Opening February 2026

AFDA, South Africa’s most award-winning and internationally recognised institution for the creative economy, is pleased to announce the opening of its fifth campus: AFDA Hatfield, officially launching in February 2026. This milestone reflects more than 30 years of AFDA’s commitment to expanding access to world-class creative education and strengthening South Africa’s talent pipeline.

AFDA—fully accredited by the CHE, SAQA and DHET, and a full member of CILECT, the global association of film and television schools—continues to hold its position as the premier training institution for the creative industries. With alumni and staff recognised across major platforms such as the SAFTAs, Emmys, Oscars and numerous international festivals, AFDA maintains its reputation for academic excellence and industry relevance.

A Strategic Addition to AFDA’s National Network

The Hatfield campus joins AFDA’s established locations in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and Gqeberha, extending access to students across Gauteng, Limpopo and Mpumalanga who previously faced significant travel and accommodation costs.

“Hatfield represents the next chapter in AFDA’s mission to unlock creative potential across South Africa,” says CEO Diaan Lawrenson. “We are committed to a future where every young creative has the opportunity to study, innovate and build sustainable careers in the creative economy.”

Situated within Pretoria’s vibrant cultural ecosystem, AFDA Hatfield is within walking distance of the Gautrain, broadcasters, production companies, media houses and creative organisations—providing students with direct and immediate access to the industry.

New Programme Roll-Out: 2026 and 2027

AFDA is pleased to confirm the strategic academic roll-out for Hatfield:

2026 Launch Programmes (Year 1):

• BA Motion Picture Medium – Year 1
• BA Live Performance – Year 1
• Higher Certificate in Film, Television & Entertainment Production
• Higher Certificate in Performing Arts

These offerings will give first-year students immediate access to AFDA’s rigorous practical and theoretical training from the moment the campus opens.

2027 Expansion:

• AFDA’s internationally recognised Honours Degree
• BA Motion Picture Medium – Year 2

This staged roll-out ensures academic stability, industry relevance and a clear progression pathway for students seeking advanced creative qualifications.

Introducing the Dean of AFDA Hatfield: Pauli van Dyk

AFDA proudly announces Pauli van Dyk as the inaugural Dean of the Hatfield campus. Van Dyk brings over three decades of experience in the South African television and production industry, spanning scripted series, documentaries, reality programming, corporate media and educational projects. She is also a long-standing lecturer in AFDA Johannesburg’s post-production, editing and directing departments.

“I am excited to support AFDA’s mission to deliver innovative, high-quality education within the creative economy,” says van Dyk. “My industry experience allows me to offer students a well-rounded understanding of production contexts and the skills they need to flourish in a rapidly evolving sector.”

World-Class Facilities for an Industry-Led Future

AFDA Hatfield will offer state-of-the-art production and post-production studios, performance venues, creative labs and technology-enabled classrooms. These facilities align with AFDA’s national gold standard, ensuring consistent academic quality across all campuses.

“Students will produce creative, innovative and future-proof projects from the moment they arrive,” AFDA states. “That is the AFDA promise.”

Expanding Access Through Hatfield Bursaries

Ahead of its opening, AFDA will introduce Hatfield-specific bursaries to widen access to creative education. Prospective students can apply by:

• Completing their application to study at AFDA Hatfield
• Paying the R1 950 registration fee
• Submitting proof of payment to the Student Recruitment Officer
• Applying online via the AFDA website

Investing in the Next Generation of Creative Leaders

AFDA’s expansion into Hatfield reinforces its dedication to nurturing future generations of filmmakers, performers, storytellers, media professionals and creative entrepreneurs.

“With Hatfield, we bring world-class creative education closer to home and closer to opportunity,” the leadership concludes. “The next generation deserves nothing less.”