Heath Mount School
YEARS BOOKED: 2009-
YEAR GROUP: 8 (ONE DAY FILM SCHOOL + THE SEQUEL)
Q&A WITH ED BOWDEN, DEPUTY HEAD:
1. You’ve been hosting an Oscars since 2010, in collaboration with Young Film Academy. Can you describe the evening?
It is a very special event that showcases the films that the pupils have worked on and produced during their post exam programme. It is a black tie event to which parents are invited. It is a very special event which brings laughter and tears in abundance but most importantly, every pupil is involved either in production, script writing, editing or acting.
2. What’s the benefit of working with Young Film Academy rather than just making films in-house?
YFA bring a professional but fun packed three days. The pupils thoroughly enjoy having an external company coming in to teach them and many go home to google Ed Boase and check out his films!
3. What is feedback from parents like?
Feedback from parents is always very positive during the week but this feedback becomes high high praise when they see the productions on Oscar night.
4. Why host an Oscars rather than another kind of event, for instance a leavers’ ball?
It is wonderful to see the pupils celebrating each others films and the atmosphere is always incredibly special with some fantastic “Hollywood worthy” acceptance speeches. It is inclusive for all pupils whereas as a Leavers Ball can be a worst case scenario for some pupils.
5. What tips would you share with other schools considering their own Oscars Night?
Definitely go for it and if possible go the extra mile to make it extra special…roll out the red carpet!
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