Ground-breaking filmmaking workshops in Longford schools

The project, funded through Longford County Council and the Department of Education, as part of the Longford STEAM and Creative Schools programmes, will be delivered by the award winning locally based filmmaking company Shuttermaniac Productions.

‘Mini Motion Pictures’, backed by world digital industry leaders, educational experts, and community supporters, will empower young filmmakers, at primary school level, to become digital creatives, starting from next month.

The ground-breaking joint Longford Creative Schools collaboration also includes support from industry giants Samsung Electronics, Amazon AWS (Amazon Web Services) and TransACT Technology Solutions.

Starting in Scoil Mhuire, Newtownforbes in October, primary school pupils will gain access to Samsung technology, to create  their own film segments for a short documentary, with a final showcase event planned to celebrate their achievements.

This programme is unique in its approach, combining upcycled Samsung technology from the Department of Education, with existing teaching resources to make this a very eco-friendly project.

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council Cllr Colm Murray congratulated Lee Williamson, Scoil Mhuire Newtownforbes and all involved in spearheading this fine initiative. “Digital literacy is so important and equipping our young people with these skills in a safe and responsible way is to be welcomed.”

Aideen McHugh, Creative Associate with the Creative Schools programme said, “This is a wonderful opportunity for the young people in Scoil Mhuire, Newtownforbes. Creative Schools is excited to collaborate with Lee Williamson on this project, prioritising the voice of the child to nurture creativity in their daily lives, and empower the next generation of visionary film makers.”

Programme Director Lee Williamson said, “This innovative project aims to inspire the next generation of storytellers here in Longford. It will introduce primary school students to the art of filmmaking and sustainable digital literacy through hands-on filmmaking workshops. We are thrilled to launch Mini Motion Pictures in partnership with Scoil Mhuire Newtownforbes and our esteemed partners.”

For more information about Mini Motion Pictures and to inquire about future participation or partnership opportunities, contact: lee@shuttermaniac.com, log on to Shuttermaniac.com or follow Shuttermaniac Productions on social media.