Children in Ipswich invited to take their first steps in the film industry
A series of workshops is being held by a film-making charity
Budding young filmmakers in Ipswich have been invited to learn the skills to become the next Steven Spielberg.
Spaces for a free 10-week workshop starting on Sunday are open to children aged nine to 16 who live in Ipswich’s Maple Park.
Paul Press, CEO of the Offshoot Foundation, said: “This workshop is open to young people without any filming experience and is designed to help them discover what filmmaking’s all about.
“Over the course of the 10 weeks, we will teach them how to use equipment, right from the basics of how to put a tripod up.
“They will learn about editing, shot sizes, scripting, storyboarding – all at a pretty basic level.
“During the final three or four weeks, they will make a film and surprise themselves at how far they’ve come.
“For those who decide to pursue a career in the film industry, we will start getting them to think about the routes in.
“We always keep in touch with our workshop groups and let them know when we run any further workshops they can attend or if we see any other opportunities.
“Ultimately, the group will learn life skills that will be beneficial whether or not they choose a career in film.
“They gain leadership and teamwork skills. What we tend to find in our workshops is that the older ones take on directing roles and support and motivate the younger ones.
“What’s great about working in film is that every single role is important, whether you’re directing or making tea on a cold winter’s day. Participants come away understanding that.”
The workshops will be run at The Hold by Mr Press, who has directed and acted, alongside a film school graduate and a media professional.
They are funded by Ipswich Borough Council. Cllr Bryony Rudkin, Ipswich Borough Council deputy leader and portfolio holder for communities and sport, said: “By funding this workshop we’re providing a free learning opportunity for young, disadvantaged people.
“They will gain new skills and experiences that will be beneficial in the future.
“We believe these opportunities help young people overcome barriers to achieving their education and future employment goals.”
The Offshoot Foundation was set up in 2008 to provide professional filmmaking workshops and projects for young people. It tries to keep all workshops free of charge.
Over 30 of the people the charity supported at a young age have progressed into careers in the film or television industry.
If you know a young person who might be interested in this opportunity, you can sign up by emailing theoffshootfoundation@gmail.com.
The first workshop is planned for 10am to 3pm this Sunday but the starting date may be pushed back if there aren’t enough participants. So, it will still be worth enquiring after Sunday.
The organisers are also happy to welcome children who can only attend on certain weeks.