The ONE DAY FILM SCHOOL
The ultimate online filmmaking course for 8-18s in schools
‘Untaps the creative energies of young people and excellent value for money’
City of London School
Whether in school, at home (or both), the ONE DAY FILM SCHOOL gives students a fun, dynamic group activity to light up their learning. Guided by video lessons and practical exercises, students work collaboratively (in person or remotely) to create short films for screening. And it doesn’t have to be done in a day – it works well over several sessions, and is a great weekend activity for boarders.
Students won’t be staring passively at a screen all day. They’ll be on their feet at least half the time – throwing punches, creating sound effects, learning camera techniques, planning and shooting their films… testing their communication, problem-solving and teamwork skills.
Schools across the world are creating their own Oscar-themed events for parents with red carpets, paparazzi… and some incredible prizes. And it’s lockdown-proof: everything can happen online. The best films will be screened at BFI Southbank, the UK’s most prestigious film venue, in August 2021.
COURSE CONTENT
FILM HISTORY
From the early days of film to the latest in special effects
FIGHT CHOREOGRAPHY
Learn how to make your own Indiana Jones-style fight scenes… and make your own punch sound effect
CAMERA
Use your smartphone or tablet like a pro, and tips and tricks to avoid common mistakes
SCREENWRITING
Discover the 3 key things every good script needs: how to tell a great story, create memorable characters… and make us care
TEN SHOT CHALLENGE
Make your own two minute short film with professional guidance
WORLD PREMIERE
Pop the popcorn, sit back and enjoy your very own world premiere
WHAT SCHOOLS SAY…
FAQ
What is the One Day Film School ?
It’s an online course, based on the popular practical filmmaking course run in schools by Young Film Academy since 2004. Students are guided by video lessons to stunt punch, create sound effects, write a script, film and edit like a pro – and divide into groups for the 10 Shot Film Challenge to make their own short films.
What’s the minimum / maximum number of students?
Minimum number of students is 5, or there won’t be enough to make a film. Maximum number of students is unlimited: the course has been run for 350 in a single day. Students should be in groups of 5-10 for the practical exercises.
What are the minimum technical requirements?
Students need to view the online video lessons (together on a big screen or in bubbles) before dividing into groups (5-10) for the practical exercises. Each group needs just one device (smartphone or tablet) to film and edit. The course is for Apple and Android users. Android users need to download PowerDirector (free from Google Play Store) in advance.
What do staff need to do to book?
We’ll need pupil numbers to supply a quote. Once booked, we require an Excel spreadsheet containing student & staff names and school emails for enrolment. Everyone receives a ‘Welcome’ email, enabling them to login to the course. We supply a Teacher’s Survival Guide to help run the day.
Can it work for students at home?
Yes – students watch the video lessons then plan their films online to decide who’s filming what. Often, students will use a common object – eg. a tennis ball – to link their shots and create a cohesive narrative. It’s a unique creative challenge, and one that enables students in different locations (even continents!) to create the illusion of being part of the same story.
Is the content appropriate for young children?
The course is rated PG (Parental Guidance). If you’re unsure, we recommend reviewing beforehand. The shark scene from Jaws (FILM HISTORY UNIT 5 – BLOCKBUSTERS) may be distressing for very young viewers and can be skipped.
How involved do staff need to be?
Once pupils are in groups (5-10) and able to view the video lessons (together or in bubbles) the course runs itself. For FIGHT CHOREOGRAPHY, there’s the option to smash a melon to create the punch sound, though a wet cloth will work just as well. Some schools allow access to props and costumes from the drama department, which can add production value.
How does it work over more than one day?
The course is online so you can run it at your own pace. The Teacher’s Survival Guide contains a suggested 9am-4.15pm timetable, however many schools run it over more than one day – two afternoons, for instance. Some schools run it over several weeks – it really is up to you. We can help advise on how best to do this.
What do I do with the finished films?
We encourage schools to create online film festivals, so students’ films can be enjoyed by the whole school community, with judging and prizes.
Are you interested in The One Day Film School?
ABOUT
The ONE DAY FILM SCHOOL
The One Day Film School is developed by Young Film Academy (YFA), the UK’s leading provider of filmmaking courses for 8-18 year olds. Each year, YFA helps over 7500 young people make their first digital films.