Young Edinburgh filmmakers nominated for 2025 Into Film awards

Leading film education charity, Into Film, has today announced this year’s Into Film Awards nominees including three nominations for filmmakers and filmmaking teams based in Scotland. 

Nominated for the Time for Action Award (Sponsored by Swatch) are 8 young people aged 16-19 from CITADEL YOUTH CENTRE, Leith for the film Can we talk about Mental Health.

The filmmakers are Holly Watson (18), Nyah Sallan (16), Sophie Hunter Little (16), Brian Hainey (17), Levi Bennet (18), Ellie Pullar (18), Joshua Moohan (19), Jack Fyffe (18).

This call to action film utilises many different kinds of animation to highlight not only the mental health struggles that many young people face, but to also address the systemic difficulties that exist in trying to access support. In the young people’s own voices this is a direct plea asking all of us, from teachers to government ministers, to do better.

Nominated for the Best Film – 16-19 (Sponsored by Warner Bros. Discovery) are 9 filmmakers aged 17-19 from West Pilton’s SCREEN EDUCATION EDINBURGH for the film Come Inside.

The filmmakers are Aaron McCrossan (19), Allair Ayeni (18), Ben Emmel (18) CJ Reeder (17), Emma White (18), Jasmine Mooney (17), Kirk Kerrane (18), Lili Quigley (19) and Albie Kerlaff (17).

In this deeply affecting drama, a young woman named Mia tries her best to take her of ailing father, who is suffering from early-onset dementia, his memory and mental faculties diminishing by the day.

Nominated for Best Story (Sponsored by Amazon MGM Studios) is 14 year old Edward Ryan from Sanquhar, Dumfries and Galloway for the film More Than One Way to Go Home.

Inspired by the filmmaker’s own personal experiences, this film follows a young autistic girl, who has to find her own way home when her brother leaves her to fend for herself. A well shot film that conveys some of the difficulties that autistic people might experience. Nominees in this category were selected from among all of the films submitted to this year’s Into Film Awards, across all categories

The Awards, sponsored by the UK film industry, celebrate young people’s creativity in film, showcasing and highlighting the wealth of tomorrow’s creative talent. 

Young people from across the UK whose short films have been nominated across the Awards categories will be recognised at a glitzy afternoon ceremony, which has previously been attended by some of the biggest stars in the industry including Daniel Craig, Lashana Lynch, Eddie Redmayne, Lily James, Luke Evans, Gemma Arterton, Charles Dance, Ruth Wilson, Bill Nighy, Simon Pegg, Martin Freeman and Naomie Harris.    

This year’s nominated films cover a wide range of compelling and timely subjects for young people including mental health, the war in Ukraine, gender identity, neurodivergence, multiculturism, the potential harms of AI, feeling disconnected and isolated in modern society, nature conservation, immigration and identity, looking after an unwell parent, the need to stop scrolling on social media, and much more.

The nominees have been recognised across 11 awards categories in different age groups and the winners will be announced and presented with their awards by stars of the film and entertainment industry at the afternoon ceremony at Odeon Luxe, Leicester Square, on June 24 in London.

The award ceremony will be hosted by BAFTA Breakthrough Brit, BAFTA TV winner, actor, presenter and author Rose Ayling-Ellis MBE.

This year’s Into Film Awards received an unprecedented number of film entries from children and young people across the UK.  Into Film believes that every child should be given the chance to learn hands-on filmmaking skills and be able to tell their own stories in film, which is the central aim of its Young Creatives programme, supported by the BFI awarding National Lottery Good Cause funding. 

14 year old Edward Ryan has said: “I’m over the moon to have been nominated, I feel very happy that my film has been chosen for the Best Story category.

“It makes it feel like all the hard work has been worth it. Filmmaking is important to me because I enjoy it and it allows me to express myself in ways I was unable to before.”

17 year old Albie Kerlaff, part of the Screen Education Edinburgh filmmaking team, said: “I’m extremely excited that Come Inside has been selected — there aren’t enough opportunities like the Into Film Awards, so being part of this feels very special.

“I felt like Scorsese for a minute… then spilled my drink on my T-shirt, which brought me back down a bit! Films, to me, are a little like sandboxes where I can explore and play with emotions. Both watching and making films have been a constant way for me to process my feelings since I was small, and I hope they always will be.”

Lesley Williamson of Citadel Youth Centre has said: We are thrilled to be nominated for this award. This is a great achievement for the young people involved.

“This film speaks from the young people’s hearts and is very open, honest and raw. All the young people involved have never had the opportunity to create a film before, and the fact they chose this outlet to discuss their mental health and the (lack of) support offered to them regarding their mental health says a lot about the film making process and how it can bring people together.

“This film discusses the mental health crisis, support available for young people and how they are made to feel regarding government funding allocation. At a time where third sector organisations are facing substantial cuts to their funding (we personally have faced a 72% funding cut from Edinburgh Council), this film was organically created by the young people expressing their views and how this impacts them.

“This topic is important to the young filmmakers as it speaks about issues that are close to them and is an honest representation of how they have been made to feel.

“All the young film makers involved are from homes that face low income, poverty, areas of deprivation and struggles with their mental health so this is a true representation of how young people are impacted by socio-economic differences.”

Actor, Presenter, author and host of this year’s awards Rose Ayling-Ellis MBE has said: “I am really honoured to be the 2025 Into Film Awards host and I am so impressed with the creativity and brilliance of all the young people involved.

“The standard of the nominated films is extraordinarily high and just shows how important it is to give young people a voice through filmmaking.”

Rose is a BAFTA Breakthrough Brit and a BAFTA TV winner, and she recently won an RTS and a Broadcast award for her work as the first deaf presenter of live sport hosted at the 2024 Paralympics; her stage debut in As You Like it was has been nominated for a Laurence Olivier Award and won the Stage Debut Award and she is the recipient of the Visionary Honours for Inspirational Person of the Year. 

This year alone has already seen her front her second documentary for the BBC, release her first children’s book Marvellous Messages and appear in critically acclaimed BBC drama Reunion. Next, she will next guest star in an episode of Dr Who and lead ITV drama Code of Silence on 18th May.

THE NOMINEES ARE:

Best Animation – 5-11 (Sponsored by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures, UK)

Cae yr Arth (Cae the Bear)

Made by a class of 30 young people aged 9-10 from Caedraw Primary School – Merthyr Tydfil, Wales

Feeling disillusioned by life in a bustling city, a kindly bear stumbles upon a rare piece of nature, and decides to try and help it flourish. But despite his best efforts, the big city may not be the right environment…

Offline Virus

Made by Dulcie-Bella, aged 11 – Banbury, England

Animated in a striking Japanese-influenced manga style, this vibrant music video shows a social media-obsessed girl losing all of her colour and vitality as she spends too much time online.

The Wellington Cobbler and Wrekin Giant

Made by 23 young people aged 8-11 from the film club at Meadows Primary School and Nursery – Ketley, England

Visible from their own film club window, this stop motion animation depicts the myth of how The Wrekin, a famous hill in Shropshire, was supposedly formed, by way of a clever shoe repairman and a fiendish giant…

Best Animation – 12-19 (Sponsored by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures, UK)

And Then What?

Made by Evie, aged 18 – Croydon, England

Created with animation software Blender, this short 3D animation is a cautionary tale about pervasive social media and the risk of jumping to conclusions, as two friends discuss a classic case of crossed wires.

Animated Voices 

Made by 10 young people aged 13-14 working with Gritty Realism Productions – Cardiff, Wales

Made by young people living in Cardiff that hail from ethnic minority backgrounds, this animation sees them exploring their personal experiences of life in the UK, in their own words, and using their own animation.

Mouse House

Made by Katie, aged 16, from Pate’s Grammar School – Cheltenham, England

In this charming stop motion animation for all ages, a family of mice set out for a local allotment in search of food, only to return home and find that one of their number has been left behind to fend for himself. Will he ever make it back home to the Mouse House?

Best Documentary (Sponsored by IMDb)

The Freedom of the Sea

Made by Rosie, age 17, from Varndean College – Brighton, England

Having emigrated in the wake of the Iranian revolution in the 1970s, one family – now long-settled in Brighton – discuss the difficult decision to leave their home, and the way being able to swim in the sea together is a perfect encapsulation of the freedom they found in the UK.

Kicking through Transition

Made by Indy, aged 15 – Woking, England

A teenager named Indy reminisces about his decision to come out as trans, and how that decision went on to affect his passion for playing football and his love of the beautiful game.

Mariupol

Made by Daria Savchenko, aged 18, from Gower College – Swansea, Wales

This affecting documentary sees one woman recounting her harrowing experiences in Mariupol, Ukraine, as the Russian invasion unexpectedly turned her life upside down. And though she’s now settled in Swansea, Wales, her testimony demonstrates the extreme and enduring trauma that many survivors continue to face.

Time for Action (Sponsored by Swatch)

Can we talk about Mental Health

Made by 8 young people aged 16-19 from Citadel Youth Centre – Edinburgh, Scotland

This call to action utilises many different kinds of animation to highlight not only the mental health struggles that many young people face, but to also address the systemic difficulties that exist in trying to access support. In the young people’s own voices this is a direct plea asking all of us, from teachers to government ministers, to do better.

Severn Wild 

Made by 18 young people aged 16-19 working with MediaActive Projects and BFI Film Academy – Wem, England

This lyrical film is an impassioned plea to protect our country’s rivers, using beautiful animation, historical materials, and a poetic script to detail the far-reaching and catastrophic effects that humanity and civilisation have had on the River Severn, but also highlighting hopeful plans to restore the river and return it to a more natural state.

Tipping Point 

Made by Araminta, aged 16 – Conwy, Wales

A short film that nevertheless packs a mighty punch, this is a stark wake-up call for anyone who’s ever found themselves spending hours mindlessly scrolling on their phone; a film with a vital message, urging and reminding us all to live our lives to the fullest.

Best Film – 5-11 (Sponsored by Working Title Films)

Ballet d’Or

Made by Fletcher, aged 11, and Jude, aged 9 – Newcastle, England

Eight year old Frankie finds himself caught between two passions when he contemplates quitting ballet to focus on football, until he makes a surprising discovery about his football coach that changes everything.

S.I. – Superficial Intelligence

Made by 20 young people aged 10-11 from Burnham Market Primary School – Burnham Market, England

Worried by the amount of homework they’ve been given, two children build their own deep thinking artificial intelligence robot named S.I. to complete all their homework for them. However, the more S.I. learns, the more out of control it seems to become…

Ynyr yr Ysbryd (Ynyr the Ghost)

Made by Briall (aged 10), Celt (10), Elai (9) and Fflur (10), from Clwb Ffilm Dyffryn Nantlle – Penygroes, Wales

When a young boy named Ynyr wakes up as a ghost, he finds that the experience isn’t as fun as he might have imagined. And when he’s interviewed for the local news channel about his lonely new existence, he draws the attention of the Council of Ghosts… can they help him find his place?

Best Film – 12-15 (Sponsored by Paramount Pictures)

Daydreaming

Made by 24 young people aged 11-14 from Sawston Village College – Cambridge, England

Seemingly caught daydreaming in their classes, we see the inner thoughts of three pupils. Between a meeting with artist Frida Kahlo, an encounter with Isaac Newton, and even a trip back in time to the Battle of Hastings, it’s clear that vacant looks and blank faces in the classroom may not always be telling the whole story!

Superhero School

Made by 11 young people aged 12-13 from Park School – Belfast, Northern Ireland

In a school for superheroes, the rivalry between Speedy and Quicklight usually ends with Speedy in front. However, that all changes when Quicklight steals Speedy’s superpowered trainers. Can the class of colourful heroes band together to help Speedy regain his powers?

Vacation 

Made by Indi, aged 15 – Waterlooville, England

Bored out of his mind, a teenage boy finds himself captivated by a mysterious new video game. As he becomes increasingly hooked, he finds that eating, hygiene, and all other aspects of life simply fade away, until a concerned neighbour finally comes to check on him. But not all is as it seems…

Best Film – 16-19 (Sponsored by Warner Bros. Discovery)

Beware the Zoomies: An Unsolved Mystery

Made by Araminta, Cole, Micah, and Ethan – Conwy, Wales

In this pitch-perfect and very funny documentary pastiche, one poor girl’s unfortunate case of ‘the zoomies’ is explored by a doctor, her two long-suffering friends, and the uncontrollably energetic victim herself.

Come Inside

Made by 9 filmmakers aged 17-19 from Screen Education Edinburgh – Edinburgh, Scotland

In this deeply affecting drama, a young woman named Mia tries her best to take her of ailing father, who is suffering from early-onset dementia, his memory and mental faculties diminishing by the day.

No Dice

Made by Grace Holt, aged 19, from Wales High School – Sheffield, England

Four people of a certain age embark on an epic fantasy adventure by virtue of a role playing board game in this hilarious comedy that makes great use of special effects, and shows that there’s no age limit on having fun.

Best Story (Sponsored by Amazon MGM Studios)

Nominees in this category were selected from among all of the films submitted to this year’s Into Film Awards, across all categories

Deadlines

Made by Ben Melocha, aged 19 – Leicester, England

As the work piles up, a put-upon office worker lashes out and discovers something sinister and unsettling about her office computer. This smart, David Cronenberg-inspired horror taps into modern insecurities around AI and the replaceability of humans in the face of ever-advancing machines, as well as commenting on the faceless, sterile nature of some corporate jobs, and the mental health struggles that can arise when the pressures of work become overwhelming.

More Than One Way to Go Home 

Made by Edward, aged 14 – Sanquhar, Scotland

Inspired by the filmmaker’s own personal experiences, this film follows a young autistic girl, who has to find her own way home when her brother leaves her to fend for herself. A well shot film that conveys some of the difficulties that autistic people can face, and demonstrates how the right support can be key to overcoming those challenges.

Tragicake

Made by a group of 10 young people aged 18-19 from the BFI Film Academy – Holywood, Northern Ireland

On her 18th birthday, a girl sets out to bake the perfect birthday cake. However, a past baking misadventure hangs heavy on her shoulders and comes back to haunt her in unexpected ways. Can she overcome her baking demons? It is a funny, smartly made film with a lovely story about perseverance and putting past mistakes behind us.

Ones To Watch (Sponsored by EON Productions)

The following are our chosen 2025 Ones to Watch

Dinah Naitamu, aged 18 – London, England

Dinah is a director, writer and actor who is currently attending the London Screen Academy. Her biggest goal is to increase opportunities for underrepresented groups, both in front of and behind the camera, and tell stories that are often excluded from the mainstream.

In 20 years, she wants to be halfway to EGOT status (winning an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony award), and working with the likes of Zendaya, Quinta Brunson and Ayo Edebiri.

Indi, aged 15 – Waterlooville, England

Indi is one of only two people to receive multiple nominations at this year’s Into Film Awards. He was also nominated at last year’s Into Film Awards for his film film Saving Yourself (and the World), which went on to be nominated for several other film festival awards, including the Horsham Film Festival.

Indi is a prolific filmmaker who has already created two horror films and a short production for his Film Studies GCSE this year, as well helping a local drama group create and edit a series of short films.

This year he plans to enter more film festivals, including Brighton Rocks, and aspires to one day have a film shortlisted by the Sundance Film Festival.

Michael Smith, aged 18 – Newton Aycliffe, England

Michael started making films at just 8-years-old, and by 16 his first feature film, documentary Streets of Steel: The History Of Witton Park, was screened at Witton Park Village Hall in January 2024.

The positive response he received from the local community underlined how important and successful his commitment to unearthing hidden histories has proved. Continuing in this vein, Michael has recently been commissioned by Teescraft Engineering and councillors from Durham County Council to create a documentary on the Stockton and Darlington Railway to celebrate its 200th anniversary in 2025.

This dedication to working with and in his local community is also apparent in Michael’s work with Kynren (an outdoor theatre event) and the Hardwick Live music festival. Michael has also volunteered as a videographer for Bishop Auckland FC for the past 5 years, filming matches and conducting post-match interviews.

Filmmaking Champions (Sponsored by Lucasfilm Ltd.)

The following are all Into Film Awards 2025 Filmmaking Champions 

Dale Forder from St Luke’s CE Primary School – Northampton, England
Dale has been supporting young people’s filmmaking since 2021. He started working on film projects during the COVID lockdown, when working with youth theatre groups and needing to find alternate ways for them to be creative without directly working in large groups, as well as a way to demonstrate their progress to parents.

Dale now runs an extra-curricular film club at St Luke’s CE Primary School in Northampton. The club is available to children across years 1-6, with the older children often helping the younger ones, helping them learn responsibilities and the importance of helping others.

Dale strives to give the young people as much creative freedom as possible and encourages them to only create films that help tackle topical issues of importance to young people. Previous films include You Are Enough, a film about exam stress and secondary school anxiety; Dyslexia & Me, a documentary/drama hybrid exploring children’s understanding of dyslexia (which won Best Film – 11 and Under at the 2024 Into Film Awards); and their most recent project, Navigating The Net, which is about internet and computer safety.

Steve Swindon from TAPE Community Music and Film – Llandudno, Wales
Steve runs TAPE Community Music and Film, a community arts charity in North Wales that he started 17 years ago, where filmmaking is a cornerstone of their work.

A lot of TAPE’s recent work has been with young people at Ysgol Y Gogarth, an additional learning needs school in Llandudno. Working with 16-19 year olds with a wide range of additional needs, Steve strives to be a creative advocate for the ideas and ambitions of the young people he works with.

He is committed to creative inclusion and encouraging new ways of working, giving as many people as possible the opportunity to have their ambitions and ideas heard and explored through film.

Pupils there have been supported to set up their own production company, Hope Productions, and their film Battery – a perfect example of Steve’s work in action – was nominated for Best Film – 16-19 at the Into Film Awards 2024.

St. Colmcille’s Primary School – Crossgar, Northern Ireland
Based in a small, rural community, where young people face a number of challenges, and limited access to opportunities and the arts, St. Colmcille’s has gone above and beyond in using film to broaden the horizons of its pupils and open up a world of possibilities.

In February 2022 the school began a cross-circular project focused on the use of film. Departments across the school worked together to provide pupils with a range of transferable film-based skills, weaving filmmaking into normal lessons, and ultimately seeing each class create their own films.

Now, each year they host a glitzy premiere evening, complete with red carpet, a limousine, photo booth, ‘paparazzi’ and popcorn, giving the young filmmakers and the wider community – a unique and unforgettable experience.

In 2024, their film Cereal Killers was nominated for Best Film 12-15, and ultimately won the Audience Choice Award.

Tomorrow: North Edinburgh Film Festival

WEST PILTON NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE 11am – 5pm

The North Edinburgh Film Festival is happening tomorrow!

Join us at West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre (19 W Pilton Grove, EH4 4BY) from 11am tomorrow for a fun day filled with screenings, activities, and workshops.

It’s free and there’s no need to book tickets, just turn up!

North Edinburgh Film Festival

SATURDAY 22 FEBRUARY from 11 – 5 at WEST PILTON NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE

🎬 2025 North Edinburgh Film Festival – don’t miss this family-friendly celebration of film and community stories!

Presented by Screen Education Edinburgh and North Edinburgh Arts, this year’s NEFF brings a diverse programme of over 30 films – from powerful local stories to short animations and global perspectives.

📅 Saturday 22 February 2025, 11am-5pm

📍 West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre

🎫Free event

Highlights include:

📽️Films from North Edinburgh – stories made by the community, for the community

🌍 Global shorts & animations, from near and far

🎭 Special performance by Curious Seed, featuring films by local artists and Craigroyston Community High School pupils

🎥 Workshops for aspiring filmmakers of all ages

The day also includes film installations and free food for attendees and wraps up with a screening of eight new locally made films. There’s plenty to explore so come and join us!

Screen Education Edinburgh: Join our Through the Lens Adult Filmmaking Programme!

Our Through the Lens Programme is back and open to anyone aged 18+ (no upper age limit!) living in North Edinburgh, including Crewe, Drylaw, East Pilton, Leith, Newhaven, Muirhouse, Pennywell, Royston, Salvesen, Telford, Wardieburn, Waterfront, West Granton and West Pilton.

Learners on the course will get hands-on training in key filmmaking roles such as camera and sound, screenwriting, directing, producing, production design, and editing, also exploring film by watching and discussing films, before coming together as a crew to create a short film in your community!

The course also includes industry talks from professionals working in film and TV, social events including cinema trips, and progression advice and support.

Our Through the Lens programme is funded by Screen Scotland, The Robertson Trust, and City of Edinburgh Council, aiming to provide access to filmmaking in local communities, develop creative and transferable skills, empower individuals and communities, facilitate pathways to further opportunities, and promote diversity and representation.

No previous experience is necessary for this programme – just a passion for film. The course is free to take part, with snacks provided and bursaries available for those who require assistance with travel costs.

Sessions will take place every Tuesday, 6pm to 8pm at Screen Education Edinburgh, 30 Ferry Road Avenue, EH4 4BA on the following dates:

November: 12th , 19th , 26th

December: 3rd , 10th , 17th

January: 7th , 14th , 21st , 28th

February: 4th , 11th , 18th , 25th

Filming and editing days will be 10am to 6pm on the following dates:

  • Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th January
  • Saturday 1st February

Click HERE to apply for the course.

The deadline for applications is 5pm on Monday 4th November.

For enquiries, please email our Skills and Qualifications Officer Sean Young at Sean@screen-ed.org

TODAY: North Edinburgh Film Festival

2024 North Edinburgh Film Festival is TODAY – Saturday 3 February (12.30pm to 5pm) at West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre.

From 2.45pm on Screen 1 we’ll be presenting ‘North Edinburgh from the Archive’.

Screen Education Edinburgh, formerly known as Pilton Video, opens its archive to bring you a fantastic selection of 9 short drama films that showcase North Edinburgh, its creativity, and its cinematic talent on and off screen.

Today promises to be a fantastic day celebrating community cinema and filmmaking in North Edinburgh. From filmmaking workshops and screenings of films created through North Edinburgh Arts’ Saturday programme, to an exhibition on local history and more, we have something for everyone to enjoy.

Look out for friends, family and neighbours on the big screen as we showcase some of the best locally-made films, as well as 5-star family favourite ‘Song of the Sea’.

Free entry – you can join us from the beginning at 12.30pm or drop in throughout the day. Food will also be provided, with opportunities to connect with local residents and neighbours.

We look forward to seeing you there!

SEE is delighted to announce the films we’ll be screening from our archives today at the North Edinburgh Film Festival!

Spanning both decades and genres, this selection of films highlights the talented people we’ve worked with over the years, as well as the creativity and vibrancy of the North Edinburgh community.

The North Edinburgh Film Festival is presented with North Edinburgh Arts and will be held at the West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre today = Saturday 3rd February – from 12.30pm-5pm.

It’s a completely free event, and you’re welcome to drop in throughout the day.

We hope to see many of you there!

Image description: 1) Schedule for the North Edinburgh Film Festival

2) Information on the films Stuck, Aye and John’s Shoes

3) Information on the films Lucky Draw, Time and Motion and The Interview

4) Information on the films Oh, The Man with No Name and My Shadowlands

5) Information on the films Keep It, Contact Trace and To Janice

Red carpet treatment for Screen Education Edinburgh filmmakers

LAST weekend Leith Theatre rolled out its red carpet for an for an unforgettable celebration of the latest cohort from the BFI Film Academy Edinburgh and South East Scotland Short Course.🌟🍿

Screen Education Edinburgh learners spent the past few months working collaboratively towards their Preparing to Work in the Film Industry NCFE Level 2 qualification, while working together to write, direct and edit their own short films.

The result? Three phenomenal short films; “To Janice,” “To Be a Woman is To Be in Conflict,” and “I’ve Waited”, which we had the privilege of screening on the big screen at Leith Theatre. 🎥🙌

Huge congratulations to all the learners for their outstanding films, hard work, and the remarkable stories they’ve brought to life. Your creativity and passion have left us inspired and delighted to be part of your undoubtedly incredible filmmaking journeys.🎉

🤝 Thank you to BFI Film Academy, The National Lottery, The City of Edinburgh Council and Screen Scotland for making this course possible.

SCREEN EDUCATION EDINBURGH

Save the date for North Edinburgh Film Festival

SATURDAY 3rd FEBRUARY from 12.30 – 5pm

WEST PILTON NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE

We’re delighted to let you know that the second edition of the North Edinburgh Film Festival will take place on Saturday 3 February at West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre

Presented by Screen Education Edinburgh and North Edinburgh Arts, the Festival is a day celebrating community cinema and filmmaking in North Edinburgh.

Look out for friends, family and neighbours on the big screen as we showcase some of the best locally-made films, as well as 5-star family favourite Song of the Sea! From screenings and workshops to food and an exhibition on local history, there’s something for everyone!

The Festival will be held from 12.30pm to 5pm. It’s completely free to attend – you can join us from the beginning, or drop-in throughout the day.

We can’t wait to see everyone!

Edinburgh Schools HETV Inspire Sessions Launch

Screen Education Edinburgh (SEE), Film Edinburgh (City of Edinburgh Council, Culture Service), ScreenSkills’ High-end TV Skills Fund, and Arts & Creative Learning (City of Edinburgh Council, Children, Education and Justice Services) are proud to launch the Edinburgh Schools HETV Inspire Sessions.

These workshops are designed to inspire Edinburgh’s young workforce to consider careers in High-End TV Drama Production. The sessions will take place from October 2023 – February 2024 in City of Edinburgh Council High Schools across Edinburgh.

Edinburgh’s screen industries have grown considerably in recent years, with an annual value of £23.8 million. However, with the UK screen industries requiring an estimated 10,000 new entrants each year to sustain the current workforce, the shortage of young talent entering the field presents a significant challenge to the sector.

The HETV Inspire Sessions aim to address this shortage. Created with S4-6 pupils taking a wide range of subjects in mind, these workshops provide an opportunity to find out about the wide range of jobs available in the television industry. The workshops will connect with an estimated 500 pupils in at least 17 schools around Edinburgh. 

Workshops are led by industry professionals working in a diverse range of jobs within High-End TV Drama Production, who can offer a unique perspective on the industry. Pupils will gain hands-on practical experience, learning about the day-to-day responsibilities of different jobs. They will leave the sessions signposted to active opportunities in the field, such as SEE courses, e-learning from ScreenSkills’ High-end TV Skills Fund, career maps and more.

Emphasis has been placed on ensuring representation of roles with a shortage of entrants, empowering pupils to consider roles they may not have considered suited to their skillset. This programme aims to inspire pupils and guide them towards a rewarding career in this dynamic, growing field.

Laura Findlay, Creative Engagement Officer at SEE said, “There are a wealth of jobs in the industry that young people may not even know about or have considered before.

“We understand how important it is to support and develop pupils in a number of ways in and out of school – whether it’s courses and programmes we run, giving them hands on experience in film, or signposting them to internships, training programmes, or online courses, such as those run by ScreenSkills’ High-end TV Fund.

“Working in partnership allows us to pull together our resources, giving young people the tools and opportunities they need to get a start in the industry.” 

City of Edinburgh Council Culture and Communities Convener, Councillor Val Walker said, “It is fantastic news that the new HETV Inspire Sessions are going to be coming to our schools and giving pupils an insight into the sort of career pathways available to them.

“Here in Edinburgh and across Scotland we have an enviable film and television industry and it’s our responsibility to make sure that we nurture and enhance this. I’m looking forward to seeing our pupils get involved in this scheme and I’m sure it’ll be a great success.”

Vicki Ball, HETV First Break and Careers Outreach Manager at ScreenSkills said: “HETV production is growing in Edinburgh, and it’s important that we invest in the local talent that will help the industry continue to thrive.

“That’s why we’re working with local people and partners to help inspire the next generation of talent and help them find their pathway into one of the many roles available”.

The first HETV Inspire Session was held at Firrhill High School, led by industry professional Jackie McCraith-Smith. Running an interactive workshop, she provided pupils with valuable insights into her role as a Locations Manager.

From spill kits to blue shoes and more, they had the opportunity to see up-close some of the kit Location Managers use in their work, highlighting a potential pathway for pupils to enter the industry.

Calum McAlpine, teacher at Firrhill High School said, “The event did more than just provide information; it ignited a genuine interest and passion for the industry. Every school should have them visit!”

Exciting opportunities with Screen Education Edinburgh

Screen Education Edinburgh is delighted to announce two exciting opportunities aimed at young people passionate about film

BFI Film Academy Short Course for Edinburgh and South East Scotland, delivered by Screen Education Edinburgh (SEE), and the SEE Young Filmmakers Hub

The BFI Film Academy Short Course for Edinburgh and South East Scotland, delivered by Screen Education Edinburgh (SEE), and SEE Young Filmmakers Hub are both projects designed to help aspiring young filmmakers gain practical knowledge and experience, while highlighting the various pathways into the screen industries.

These courses seek to empower learners to pursue their passion for filmmaking, inspiring them to future careers and success within the screen industries

BFI Film Academy Short Course 2023 for Edinburgh and South East Scotland, delivered by Screen Education Edinburgh: 

The BFI Film Academy Short Courses offer opportunities for ambitious 16 to 19-year-olds to get to know more about film and how to forge a career in the screen industries. Delivered by Screen Education Edinburgh and supported by the BFI, awarding National Lottery funding, and Screen Scotland, this introductory, hands-on course builds knowledge and skills and shows the different pathways into the industry.

BFI Film Academy Short Courses take place across the UK for talented and committed young people aged 16-19, and they have proven to have an excellent track record of inspiring the next generation of filmmakers and crew.

Participants of the Course will make short films, learn from top talent working in the industry through masterclasses, and acquire the necessary knowledge and experience to build a career within the screen industries.

Not only does this course provide practical filmmaking experience, but also instils confidence, develops teamwork skills and creates a sense of being a part of a community of aspiring screen industry professionals. Along with filmmaking experience, these soft skills are crucial in finding success within the industry.

‘Prior to the BFI, I really lacked in confidence with film equipment and experience on set, and now I feel comfortable vocalising what I need done and know how to achieve it.

My biggest achievement on the course was when we were filming, my teammates and I worked well together, communicating and asking each other for help and advise.

This cemented the fact that I want film to be my chosen career and that I have new found skills. The course has given me a realistic understanding, as well as an appreciation of the film industry – inspiring me to make films of my own.’ – BFI Film Academy Short Course Participant 2022

Subject to successful completion of required assessments, this course can award learners the Preparing to Work in the Film Industry qualification, an NCFE Level 2 award. This qualification will benefit their professional development, whether through further film education courses or entering the industry.   

This course is open to young people aged 16-19 years old, living in the Edinburgh, Clackmannanshire, East Lothian, Falkirk, Fife, Midlothian, Scottish Borders, Stirling and West Lothian areas. No prior experience is required.

The deadline for applications is the 24th of September 2023, at 5pm.

More information and the application form can be found at https://www.screen-ed.org/bfifilmacademy.

The BFI Film Academy Edinburgh and South East Scotland Short Course will take place on the following dates:

October 2023 – 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 24th, 28th.   

November 2023 – 4th, 11th, 12th, 14th, 18th, 19th, 25th, 26th.   

Sessions will take place from 11am to 6pm, while shooting days will last from 10am to 6pm. The sessions taking place on the 24th of October and 14th of November will be online, from 6pm to 8pm.

The course fee is £25; however, for those unable to pay this, we still encourage applying. Bursaries will be available for those who require assistance with fees or travel costs.

We understand that people have different accessibility needs, and that some communicate better through different mediums. Therefore, there is an option to submit a video application, rather than a written online form; further details regarding this can be found here.

In addition, we will be holding an open day for applicants at SEE on the 9th of September, 10am – 1pm. During this drop-in session, we will be on hand to help with the application process, as well as answer any questions.

SEE Young Filmmakers Hub: 

Supported by the Sean Connery Foundation, the SEE Young Filmmakers Hub offers young people the opportunity to learn more about the art of filmmaking, regardless of their circumstances. Aimed at those aged 12-18 living in Edinburgh, learners will gain experience of working in a variety of filmmaking roles.

From sound and lighting design to cinematography and directing, this practical course provides valuable hands-on training in all aspects of filmmaking, allowing young people the chance to discover new interests and strengths. 

Working in groups learners will be tasked with developing, shooting and editing their very own narrative short film. Through this course, we seek to empower young people to create their own ideas and tell stories that are meaningful to them, gaining self-confidence and fostering good teamwork skills. 

My long term goal is to get into the film industry. I haven’t decided exactly what I want to do but I think I have a clearer idea after this course.

It feels like a very effective introduction to film as you gain an understanding of a wide range of different aspects of film, such as directing as well as sound and editing, rather than just one. I gained a lot of confidence with the technical side of filmmaking.’ – Participant Young Filmmakers Hub

The next stage of the Young Filmmakers Hub will take place from September/October to December 2023. Young people aged 12-15 years old living in Edinburgh are eligible to apply. More information and an application form can be found at https://www.screen-ed.org/yfh.

Learners will be split into groups based on age, with the course running on the following dates:

Group 1 (12-14): starting 21st September and continuing every Thursday

Group 2 (14-15): starting 19th September and continuing every Tuesday

Group 3 (16-18): starting 6th September and continuing every Wednesday

SEE is dedicated to making filmmaking accessible to people of all backgrounds and experience levels. The Hub is free, and no previous filmmaking experience is necessary; the only requirement is a love for films, and a desire to make your own. 

Upon completion of this course, learners will be invited to enrol in more year-round filmmaking activities here at SEE. We are committed to providing ongoing support and development, nurturing the talents of aspiring filmmakers and empowering them to pursue their passion further.