Lower Sixth induction: Pupils throw themselves into film challenge
Lower Sixth pupils put their communication, teamworking and filmmaking skills to the test thanks to a visit from One Day Film School.
This formed the final part of the induction programme for the new cohort of Lower Sixth Formers, following academic bridging work after GCSEs, an orientation lunch for those joining us from other schools, and their first day in school.
In the morning, they learned the essentials about film history, fight choreography, camera work and screenwriting.
They found out about the early days of film to the latest in special effects, analysed fight scenes and choreographed their own fight scene, and learnt tips and tricks on how to film like a pro. They also looked at how to create memorable characters.
Then it was time for the 10 Shot Challenge where pupils worked in groups to create silent (with music) films of up to two minutes based on a classic narrative.
Following an afternoon of acting, filming and editing, it was time for the Oscars. The judges, who were representatives from the Young Film Academy, took their seats for the world premiere of pupils’ films, and to decide who would win Best Overall Film, Best Acting Performance and Best Technical Performance.
The Best Technical Performance was won by ‘Betrayal’ (L8) and Ella Merryweather picked up the Best Acting Performance accolade for her role in L7’s ‘A Sister’s Revenge’.
The Best Overall Film was won by L2 and their ‘The Chip Shop Massacre’ video and the film is now eligible for the 2025 10 Shot Film Awards which recognises filmmaking excellence in 125 leading UK schools. The judging panel is headed by Robin Kinsey, Vice President Marketing, Walt Disney Studios EMEA & UK – Marvel, Lucasfilm and 20th Century Studios.
Reflecting on the day, Head of Sixth Form Mr David Stone said: “The pupils got fully involved in their groups in taking on the challenges set. The day resulted in an upbeat and positive feel amongst the students about the start of the next chapter in their journeys through school – whether they have been with us for 12 years or two days!
“It was great to see different groups of students working together in their tutor groups and it really has helped to set the pupils up for Sixth Form and helped to make these first few days back a genuine induction, ahead of getting down to the business of work.”
In the evening, the films were screened to the parents as they arrived for the Lower Sixth Information Evening – a timely opportunity to share what the students had been up to during the day.
