Behind Every Great Film is a Visionary

It was immediately clear that ‘Film Skool’ had excellent student learning as its main priority. I was so impressed by the screen creations of other students (supported by professional camera experts) Having sat in on all of the preparatory lessons delivered at my own school, I have been inspired by the way Film Skool sparked enthusiasm in sessions that were (of necessity) after school - and therefore potentially tiring. These preparatory workshops saw students functioning purposefully in groups; enjoying the autonomy of developing their ideas, whilst taking on different roles of responsibility. The most recent phase saw a focus on producing quality screenplays, with students being encouraged by experienced screenwriters. The West End premieres mean that all students get to see their completed films which (in such a venue) can be shared with family members and school staff. Having seen the maturity and motivation that ‘Film Skool’ promotes in each student and the wonderful creativity encouraged, I cannot hesitate in giving my full support to the work of this exciting organisation.

It is a fantastic experience for my students that range in age from 11-18 to participate on the ‘Film Skool’ and get the opportunity to use a wide variety of digital technology that is available on the ‘Film Skool’ from working with filmmaking professionals to using the editing suite available to students. It has allowed my students to gain valuable skills in the filmmaking process and make professional short films aided by filmmaking professionals with the support of fantastic filmmaking facilities.

I want to thank you and your team for the amazing experience you offered our pupils through ‘Film Skool’. Your organisation was impeccable and your professional eye and understanding of outcome. Parents, staff and pupils were thrilled to be a part of this opportunity and can only thank you again and hope that ‘Film Skool’ will return to St Marthas.

Before this experience I had read about films, written short scripts and made storyboards, however I had not had the opportunity to make a short film. Overall I found the process of bringing an initial idea from paper to screen interesting and enjoyable, as well as informative. Working in a group of four people allowed us to have enough different ideas and contributions, but also ensured that we were all equally involved in the writing, shooting and editing. There were many different aspects of the course I enjoyed, for example once we decided on our final idea we all spent a day in Starbucks writing the first draft of the script. By all working to together, it was useful to understand different interpretations of the concept and various ways in which we could develop the script. I also learnt a lot about selecting the right mood and language, and carefully constructing the dialogue to match the characters personalities and characteristics. I was also most interested in creating the shot list for the film, as this was our visual basis and I could use ideas and inspiration from what I’ve learnt through reading about and studying films. I also feel that I have learned a lot about the technicalities and art of film-making. By working with a professional cinematographer we were able to learn about different effects, how to set the white balance and create the right look of the film. We were also able to get advice on what type of shots to get and how to ensure continuity and flow within the film. Having now had the opportunity to write and shoot a film, as well as editing it using Final Cut, I feel more confident in applying to university, with the hope of studying film production. I believe that through making my first short film with professional help, I have gained invaluable experience and knowledge, and now have no doubts about entering the film industry.

I really enjoyed meeting other students my age and having so much fun planning our short film and to see the film in a cinema was the best experience ever! I loved making the film and also I enjoyed editing the film which was really fun.

A Thousand thanks for running ‘Film Skool’, he couldn’t have loved it more. He has been full of enthusiasm coming home each day, especially today, filming day. Thank you for organizing such a gift for the children.

‘First of all I want to thank you for having my daughter in the program. She enjoyed the classes alot. Everytime after classes, she was so happy’.

‘My daughter had an amazing time at Film Skool. These classes are a god send to keep children out of boredom. These initiatives are really needed and children can learn new skills and meet new friends in a safe place and fun way. Thank you so much