We help young filmmakers to thrive
Sparks Film School helps young filmmakers to develop their confidence, knowledge and skills.
We offer courses in filmmaking, animation and photography for ages 5-18 from Sparks Film Schools across the UK.
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Welcome to Sparks Film School
Sparks Film School is the UK’s leading film school for children and young people.
Since we launched in 2010, we’ve supported over 10,000 young filmmakers to grow their confidence, their creativity and valuable lifelong skills.
From over 30 Sparks Film Schools, we inspire and encourage young filmmakers to reach their potential.
We teach them to develop their skills and knowledge to advance their filmmaking, help to nurture their interests and provide opportunities to progress, whatever their ambitions for the future. We help them to develop as individuals, with the confidence and soft-skills to thrive.
Specialists in Quality Film & Media Courses
Specialist, fully practical training in filmmaking, animation and photography and media for young creatives aged 5-18
Courses Focus Project Based Learning
Unique film and media courses use real-world projects to boost skills and provide opportunities
Expert Film & Media instructors
Our team of expert film and media instructors are all recruited from the industry and thoroughly vetted, including DBS checks
Commitment to wellbeing
We promote positive wellbeing for all our students. We celebrate individuality and nurture personal strengths
journey to success
Our Mission at Sparks Film School
Our mission at Sparks Film School is to inspire creativity, develop the talents of young filmmakers and to energise the creative industries of tomorrow.
Inspire Creativity
Imagine Possibilities
Whatever their interests and ambitions for the future, all children benefit from increased creativity and imagination.
Develop Talent
Supercharge Skills
Inspire a love for film and media, provide opportunities for young creatives to transform their futures
Make an Impact
Energise Industry
Support young filmmakers into industry opportunities and training, ready to fuel the growing UK creative media sector
what to expect
Our Commitments
At Sparks Film School, we take our responsibilities to our students and families seriously.
We make commitments to our students and families to uphold high standards across all our activities.
PROGRESS & DEVELOP
Our Curriculum
Students joining Sparks Film School follow our unique programme of learning, through which they develop a wide range of skills and knowledge in filmmaking, animation and photography.
Our curriculum includes a complement of creative and technical learning, along with soft skill development too. Each Sparks Film School grade features progressive learning in the areas of filmmaking, animation and photography taking students from beginner level through to mastering advanced skills.
Our curriculum is based on Project-Based-Learning methodologies. Along with the Sparks grades, participation can also be used for Duke of Edinburgh Awards and Arts Award qualifications.
Safeguarding
The safety and wellbeing of all Sparks Film School students is our first priority.
We commit to providing a safe and secure environment, where our students can achieve their best.
We implement a range of safeguarding measures and provide training in safeguarding to all Sparks Film School instructors and team members.
Sparks Film School Students & Alumni
Sparks Film School welcomes children and teenagers, from age 5 through to age 18.
Our students have won film festival prizes, had their work shown at international screening events and have gone on to further training with some of the world’s best film schools.
Meet some of our current film school students and alumni and find out about their experiences with Sparks Film School.
Meet the Team
Our incredible team make the magic happen at Sparks Film School.
Find out more about the people behind the scenes.
Fees & Pricing
Course fees vary at each Sparks film school location, starting from around £11.00 per hour. For details of pricing at your local film school, please use our Sparks Class Finder.
All course fees include tuition, equipment and access to the finished film/media project.
Awards & Film Festivals
Sparks students have enjoyed success at international film festivals and have even won awards for their work.
Find out more about our students’ successes and awards at film festivals.
Reviews & Testimonials
Students and families have rated us 4.9/5 on Trustist.
Education & Community
Through Sparks Communities CIC – our community interest company – we deliver community projects in partnership with schools, educational and cultural organisations and registered charities.
Our community filmmaking projects work with children and young people who would not typically have access to film training or development opportunities. Through this work, we support young people who face disadvantages to improve their life chances, their mental health and wellbeing.
Latest Film School News
How to Find an Audience for Your Videos: 7 Winning Tips to Breakthrough
Like any emerging artist, as a filmmaker, it can be a challenge to find an audience for your videos. Audiences now have greater access to content than ever before, and so it’s increasingly more difficult to stand out and find an audience amongst lots of competition. Once you’ve put all your effort, talent and creativity … Read more
Meet Audrey, Sparks Film School Student
We sat down with Sparks Film School student Audrey, age 12, to find out more about her journey as a young filmmaker and her time with Sparks Film School. Audrey is a part of the Studio 4 crew (for ages 11-14), who meet to explore and develop their ideas, creativity and technical skillset. Members of … Read more
Sparks Film of the Month: November 2023
November 2023’s Film of the Month Award The Sparks Film School’s Film of the Month Award celebrates a film production made by film crew members taking part in Sparks Film School courses. Or young film crews work incredibly hard to produce their own film productions, where they work collaboratively to make a film that expresses … Read more
Introducing: True Colours
As part of our term time filmmaking classes at Sparks Film School, we introduce a brand new theme every term. The termly theme offers new inspiration and opportunities for creativity. It’s also an educational gateway for us to introduce new specific filmmaking techniques to our classes, so that every term, our film students are continuing … Read more
Filming with Green Screen: 8 Top Tips for Effective Results
Filming with green screen (aka chroma key) can open up worlds of possibilities for filmmakers. A green screen can help transport your characters to locations around the world, or just as impressively, it can save huge amounts of travel time, which can sometimes be make or break when it comes to keeping a film production … Read more
Sparks Film of the Month: Discover the Winner, October 2023
October 2023’s Film of the Month Award Each month, Sparks Film School’s Film of the Month Award celebrates a film production from one of our talented, imaginative and dedicated film crews. The Film of the Month Award shines a celebratory spotlight on a student production, which has been made by Sparks Film School students. Our … Read more
Meet Miro, Sparks Film School Alumni and Independent Filmmaker
Independent filmmaker Miro Alleyne McCarthy is one of our Sparks Film School alumni. We sat down with Miro to find out more about his journey as a young filmmaker and his time with Sparks Film School. Hi Miro! What filmmaking projects have you been working on recently? Quite a lot! On IMDB, I have three … Read more
Sparks Film School Students Selected at Little Venice Film Festival
In even more film festival success this week, young film students from Sparks Film Schools took part in the Little Venice Film Festival. Young filmmakers from Sparks Film Schools in Balham, Highgate and from Sparks Communities CIC had their work selected for inclusion in the 2023 screening programme. The films How Do You Feel? by … Read more
Sparks Filmmakers Win at CIFFOW 2023
Young filmmakers from Sparks Film Schools are celebrating another year of success at the Children’s International Film Festival of Wales! We’re delighted to share our congratulations with young film students from Sparks Film Schools in Hove and in Guildford, as well as to filmmakers from Sparks Film School Teesside & North Yorkshire. Film productions by … Read more
Meet Marta, Head of Sparks Film School Chelsea & Fulham
We sat down for a chat with Marta Lopez, who is joining Sparks Film School as the new Head of Sparks in Chelsea and Fulham. Chelsea and Fulham is the newest Sparks Film School to open up and will welcome young filmmakers to filmmaking courses, classes and camps from spring 2024. As a lifelong film … Read more
How Collaboration Boosts Creativity
In the world of creative endeavours, team collaboration can be that key secret ingredient that can elevate a project from good to great, and from great to exceptional. Whether you’re working on your next groundbreaking film, or a scientific discovery, the power of collaboration can help to transform the process and the outcome. In this … Read more
How to Boost Film Sound Quality: 7 No or Low Budget Tips to Improve Film Sound
At Sparks Film Schools, we believe that everyone, regardless of budget or location, can create incredible and imaginative films. Film sound quality is a crucial but often underestimated aspect of filmmaking. Sound can be a very challenging thing to get right, especially without lots of technical equipment, knowledge of microphones and attention to detail. But … Read more
That’s a Wrap on Summer 2023
After an epic and fun-filled summer holidays, it’s finally time to call “that’s a wrap” on this year’s Summer Shoots! Young film students taking part in Sparks Film School summer courses have been busy making their own film productions all over the UK. Together in small film crews, they have written, developed, planned, directed, shot, … Read more
Sparks Film School Students selected for CIFFOW
We’re delighted to share that students from not one, not two, but three Sparks Film Schools have had their work selected for inclusion at the Children’s International Film Festival of Wales! Huge congratulations to all the filmmakers involved in the chosen productions. CIFFOW receives a great many submissions, from all over the UK and beyond, … Read more
Sparks Film of the Month: Discover the Winner, August 2023
August 2023’s Film of the Month Award Every month, the Sparks Film School’s Film of the Month Award celebrates a film production from one of our talented, imaginative and dedicated film crews. The Film of the Month Award shines a celebratory spotlight on a student production, which has been made by Sparks Film School students. … Read more
Meet George, Film School Student at Sparks Film School Guildford
Young filmmaker George, age 9, is a student at Sparks Film School Guildford, where he works as part of the film crew in Studio 3. Find out more about George’s time as a young filmmaker and as a Sparks film school student. Can you tell me about when you first joined Sparks Film School? What … Read more
Screen Acting vs Stage Acting: 7 Important Differences
Screen acting, also known as film acting, is the art of portraying characters for screen based media – in movies, television shows, web series, commercials, and other filmed productions. Screen actors perform for the camera, rather than directly to an audience. Unlike stage acting, where actors perform live to their audience, screen acting involves conveying … Read more
Camera Angles: 8 Shots for Powerful Storytelling
The awareness and ability to choose different camera angles and shot sizes is one of the most important skills in any filmmaker’s toolbox. As one of the key elements of film language, knowledge of camera angles and shot sizes offers up powerful storytelling tools used in filmmaking and photography. Good use of the different camera … Read more
Sparks Filmmakers at Barnes Film Festival
We are thrilled to announce that two films by Sparks Film Students have been selected for screening at the Barnes Film Festival! Chair Farm and How Do You Feel? have both been selected for official entry to the Barnes Film Festival. This will be the first film festival entry for Chair Farm. Chair Farm is … Read more
Sparks Film of the Month: Discover the Winner, June 2023
June 2023’s Film of the Month Award Each month, the Sparks Film School’s Film of the Month Award celebrates a film production from one of our talented, imaginative and dedicated film crews. The Film of the Month Award shines a celebratory spotlight on a student production, which has been made by Sparks Film School students. … Read more
Meet Audra, Head of Sparks Film School Glasgow
We sat down for a chat with Audra Merrick, the new Head of Sparks Film School Glasgow South. Glasgow South is the newest Sparks Film School to open up and will welcome young filmmakers to filmmaking courses, classes and camps from summer 2023. As a lifelong creative, Audra is passionate about helping young filmmakers to … Read more
Film Production Design:
What is Film Production Design? Production design in filmmaking refers to the process of creating the overall visual and aesthetic look of a film. Film production design involves designing and coordinating various elements such as sets, costumes, props, and locations to establish the desired atmosphere, style, and tone of the movie. The production designer, often … Read more
Introducing: The Other Side, Autumn Term 2023
Each term, we introduce a brand new creative theme to our youth filmmaking classes. The termly theme offers new inspiration, as well as a gateway to a new set of film techniques, genre or conventions. We’re delighted to announce the new theme for Autumn 2023, The Other Side! The Other Side In the new theme, … Read more
Meet Ava, Sparks Film School Student and Dyslexia Awareness Campaigner
Young filmmaker Ava, age 13, is a student at Sparks Film School Hove, where she works as part of the film crew in Studio 4. Find out more about Ava’s time as a young filmmaker and as a Sparks film school student. Can you tell me about when you first joined Sparks Film School? What … Read more
Sparks Film of the Month: Discover the Winner, May 2023
May 2023’s Film of the Month Award Each month, the Sparks Film School’s Film of the Month Award celebrates a film production from one of our talented, imaginative and dedicated film crews. The Film of the Month Award shines a celebratory spotlight on a student production, which has been made by Sparks Film School students. … Read more
5 Effective Film Lighting Techniques: A Simple Guide for Beginners
Film lighting – whether it is natural or artificial – is absolutely essential to filmmaking. Film lighting techniques can help to tell the story, in some cases – e.g. a night shoot – it may be absolutely essential. Film lighting techniques can also set the mood and it can enhance the visual qualities of the … Read more
How Do You Feel? Selected for Northampton Film Festival 2023
Congratulations to the Studio 5 filmmakers behind the film How Do You Feel?, the production has just been selected for screening as part of the Northampton Film Festival! How Do You Feel? is a surreal short film that explores different emotions and issues of mental health through captivating, visual sequences. The film was produced by … Read more
Introducing Worlds of Wonder: The New Summer Shoots Theme for 2023
We’re thrilled to share the brand new theme for this year’s Summer Shoots. In this year’s movie making summer camps, crew members are set to delve into their own Worlds of Wonder. The Summer Shoots – our action-packed movie making camps for filmmakers ages 5-18 – are all about getting stuck into movie making and … Read more
Sparks Film of the Month: Discover the Winner, April 2023
April 2023’s Film of the Month Award Each month, the Sparks Film School’s Film of the Month Award celebrates a film production from one of our talented, imaginative and dedicated film crews. The Film of the Month Award shines a celebratory spotlight on a student production, which has been made by Sparks Film School students. … Read more
Meet Jasper, 10: Sparks Film School Student and Aspiring YouTuber
Young filmmaker and aspiring YouTuber Jasper (age 10) is a film school student at Sparks Film School in Leatherhead, Surrey, where each week, he’s working as part of the Studio 3 filmmaking crew. Find out more about Jasper’s time as a young filmmaker and as a Sparks film school student. What first interested you about … Read more
Get Ready for the Camera Games Competition 2023
Let the Camera Games begin! In the summer term of filmmaking classes, the Sparks film students compete in the Camera Games – an exciting annual filmmaking competition for the chance to win the Best Film title. Within the Camera Games filmmaking competition, the young filmmakers engage in a series of challenging and inspiring film masterclasses … Read more
The Basics of Cinematography: 6 Cinematography Techniques to Master
Cinematography Basics – 6 Cinematography Techniques Cinematography is the art of capturing moving images on film or digital media. It is an essential element of filmmaking that can have a huge impact on the success of a film, cinematography techniques play a big part in establishing the overall look and feel of a film. The … Read more
Sparks Film of the Month: Discover the Winner, March 2023
Announcing March 2023’s Film of the Month Award! Each month, the Sparks Film School’s Film of the Month Award celebrates a film production from one of our talented, imaginative and dedicated film crews. The Film of the Month Award shines a spotlight on a student production made by Sparks Film School students and celebrates all … Read more
Screenwriting Tips: 6 Simple Tips to Enhance Your Writing
It’s easy for an aspiring screenwriter to find themselves at a block on how to develop their own work. Every screenwriter will look for screenwriting tips to help them overcome the blocks and find new inspiration. In screenwriting, there are so many elements to consider and balance – character development, plot structure, dialogue, and pacing … Read more
The Heart of Harlesden: Making Documentaries with Young Filmmakers in Brent
In what has been an incredible youth filmmaking project, Sparks Film School recently partnered with the Young Brent Foundation to make youth film productions as part of a local heritage project. Their Now You See Me project aims to champion and platform the voices of young people, a cause we feel passionate about and an … Read more
Meet Robin, Sparks Film School Alumnus and Young Film Critic
We catch up with Robin Baxter, Sparks Film School alumnus, a Film Studies graduate, screenwriter and also a film critic with Whatculture.com. Robin first joined our filmmaking classes in 2012. As part of our initial ‘Startups’ crew, which later became known as Studio 5, our programme for filmmakers age 14-18. Robin also joined the Sparks … Read more
The Future of the Film Industry: Opportunities for Young People in 2023
The UK film and animation industry is a fast-growing sector, which is generating a swathe of new career opportunities for young people. The film industry, in the UK in particular but also across Europe, has witnessed a massive transformation in recent years. This is due to a lot of investment over a number of years, … Read more
How to Apply to Film School: 6 Simple Tips for a Winning Film School Application
Film schools are highly competitive. When it comes to how to apply to film school, you need to write a winning application that can cut through the competition and showcase your potential. Writing a winning application for a prestigious film school degree programme can be challenging, but with proper preparation, effort and some know-how, you … Read more
The Winners of The Camera Games
We are delighted to announce the winner’s of our inaugural The Camera Games annual challenge! The Camera Games is an annual competition for the members of Sparks Film School filmmaking classes. During the summer term each year, the young filmmakers take part in a series of masterclasses before applying their newfound knowledge to their very … Read more
6 Essential Techniques to Succeed with Documentary Filmmaking
What is documentary filmmaking? Documentary filmmaking is a style of non-fiction filmmaking that shows or explores real life events or factual stories taking place. Documentaries can take on different styles and use different techniques to achieve their purpose. For instance, some documentaries might seek to be entertaining, some informative, some educational and some persuasive. Some … Read more
Sparks Film of the Month: Discover the Winner, February 2023
Announcing February 2023’s Film of the Month Award! The Sparks Film of the Month Award celebrates a film production from one of our talented, imaginative and dedicated film crews. The Film of the Month Award shines a spotlight on a student production made by Sparks Film School students and celebrates all its strengths. We look … Read more
Meet Barney, 11: Passionate Young Filmmaker and Sparks Film School Student
Young filmmaker Barney, age 11 (nearly 12!), is a student at Sparks Film School in Dulwich, where he works as part of the film crew in Studio 4 (our filmmaking classes for ages 11-14). Barney is a longstanding member of the Sparks Film School Dulwich crew, having first started filmmaking from the age of 7. … Read more
Power Shots: 8 Tips for Powerful Cinematic Storytelling on Screen
As filmmakers, we are always aiming to create impactful, powerful cinematic storytelling on screen. It’s at the very heart of every filmmaker’s ambition. Having strong mise-en-scène within a film is one of the most helpful tools available to strengthen on-screen storytelling and turn your shots into powerful storytelling moments. What is Mise-en-Scène? If you haven’t … Read more
Soft Skills Development: How Filmmaking Develops 6 Important Soft Skills at Sparks Film School
We know how important it is for children and young people to develop soft skills. Soft skills development offers so much for the future, not just for children or teenagers, but for all of us at any stage of life. Wherever we are – whether we’re learning how to make new friends, thinking about our … Read more
How We Use Project Based Learning: 5 Ways We Empower, Inspire and Build Valuable Lifelong Skills
In all Sparks Film School programmes, Project Based Learning is one of the fundamental parts of our approach to inspire learning, empower young filmmakers and encourage valuable, lifelong skills. We believe that everyone learns at their best when they are having fun, immersed, involved and able to take both ownership and responsibility. Project Based Learning … Read more
How to Block a Scene: 5 Simple Steps to Block on a Film Set
What is Blocking? Blocking a scene is part of a film director’s role when working on set. Here, we’re going to look at how to block a scene for a film set, including some top tips of how to block a scene as part of your own filmmaking. Blocking a scene means to physically plan out … Read more
5 Top Animation Styles to Master
As we introduce Animation Classes to the Sparks Film School offering, we’re starting with a look at the 5 main animation styles. In our animation classes we’re going to cover all five animation styles. What is Animation? Animation is the process of “bringing to life” a sequence of still images by way of illusion. Subjects … Read more
Sparks Film of the Month: Discover the Winner for January 2023
Welcome to our Film of the Month! Our Film of the Month Award celebrates a film production from our talented, imaginative and dedicated film students. It shines a spotlight on a student production made by Sparks Film School students and celebrates all its strengths. We look at its impact on screen and all its little … Read more
Meet Emmi, 16: Sparks Film School Student and Young Filmmaker
Young filmmaker Emmi, age 16, is a student at Sparks Film School in Balham, where she works as part of the film crew in Studio 5 (our filmmaking classes for aged 14-18). Find out more about Emmi’s time as a young filmmaker and as a Sparks film school student. Tell us about when you first … Read more
The Camera Never Lies: the New Theme for Sparks Filmmaking Classes 2023
Each new term at Sparks filmmaking classes, the young crews explore a brand new theme designed to boost their creativity, skills and knowledge. Our next theme – The Camera Never Lies – is set to be one of the most interesting yet and we’re excited to see how members of the Sparks filmmaking classes respond! … Read more
Resolutions: 6 Perfect Story Endings
This time of year is known for resolutions, but we’re here to talk about resolutions of a different kind – story endings. In screenwriting, the third act is known as ‘The Resolution’, and it’s where the plot finally comes to its end. But not all story endings are made equal. Whilst a film must come … Read more
Filmmaking: 5 Powerful Must-Have Camera Lenses for Young Filmmakers
Whether you’re shooting on a phone, on a DSLR or on a broadcast-spec camera, one way to achieve truly cinematic shots is to look at using some must-have camera lenses. The good news is that camera lenses come in all shapes and sizes, and there are lots of budget-friendly options available too. There are some … Read more
Film Projects: 6 Simple Steps Make a Christmas Video Greetings Card
You can send festive greetings in lots of different ways, including some by video with this Christmas video greetings card project. Take a look at the steps in this filmmaking guide for how to make a Christmas video greetings card below. For this filmmaking project, you’ll need: – A camera, a smart phone camera or … Read more
Sparks Film Crews in Highgate Win Into Film Award, November 2022
Young filmmakers from Sparks Film School in Highgate have won the prestigious Film of the Month Into Film Award! Congratulations to all the filmmakers involved in making How Do You Feel? which picked up the Into Film award earlier this month. How Do You Feel? is a short film production made by Studio 5 crews … Read more
Sparks Film School Hove Students Win at the Horsham Film Festival 2022
Young filmmakers from Sparks Film School Hove have yet another Best Film award to add to their trophy cabinets! The young filmmakers who produced A Spy Through Time earlier on this year were congratulated and awarded at the Horsham Film Festival, where they were were awarded ‘Best Film by Under 18s’. It’s their second Best … Read more
Meet Zak, 15: Sparks Film School Student and Aspiring Cinematographer
Young filmmaker Zak (age 15) is a film school student at Sparks Film School in Highgate, where he is an integral part of the Studio 5 film crew. Recently, Zak was part of the film crew who made How Do You Feel?, a short film that has entered into several film festivals and has won … Read more
Best Cameras for Beginners or Young Filmmakers: 4 Cameras to Consider
What is the best camera for beginners? This is one of the top questions we’re asked by Sparks Film School students, their parents, or our social media followers. But for us, it’s a bit of a red herring. Cameras change, models and technologies update all the time. So for us at Sparks, the answer isn’t … Read more
Filmmaking Guide: Shoot Your Own Escape Room Scene
Are you a fan of horror movies? What about heist movies? Follow this simple filmmaking guide to shoot your own thrilling escape room sequence! To take part in this filmmaking guide, you’ll need: • A video camera (this can be a phone/tablet camera, or a camcorder, etc)• Editing software or an editing app (see the … Read more
Meet Ruby Ballantyne, Sparks Film School Alumnus & Emerging D.o.P.
This month, we caught up with Ruby Ballantyne, a Sparks Film School alumnus and a young filmmaker currently making waves in London’s film industry. Ruby (she/they) is now working a Cinematographer and Director of Photography working within the film industry and had lots of impressive advice to share with aspiring young filmmakers looking to develop … Read more
Meet Alfie, Emerging Young Filmmaker and Winner of Crew Member of the Year 2022
Young filmmaker Alfie (age 15) has attended Sparks Film School in Balham for the last 5 years. Alfie is a member of Studio 5, part of Sparks’ programme of filmmaking classes, and has also attended several filmmaking holiday courses. In September, Alfie won an award as Crew Member of the Year 2022, in recognition of … Read more
Sparks Film School Hove: Winners of Best Film, Children’s International Film Festival of Wales 2022
Congratulations to the young filmmakers from Studio 3 at Sparks Film School Hove on their epic film festival win! The makers of A Spy Through Time, a production make by young filmmakers at our Hove branch, have just been awarded the incredible title of Best Film at the Children’s International Film Festival of Wales. The … Read more
Screen Legends: 7 Legendary Filmmakers You Need to Know
In this Autumn’s filmmaking classes, we’re exploring legendary filmmakers to seek out inspiration, techniques, influence and know-how for our student’s latest film productions. What makes a legendary filmmaker? We’ve put together a list of seven legendary filmmakers we think every young filmmaker should know. This isn’t another list of auteurs, though we’ve included one or … Read more
Post-Production: 5 Powerful Processes to Prepare Films for the Screen
What is Post-Production? Post-production is everything that happens to film footage once it’s been shot, before it’s a fully-fledged, watchable film or video. On the surface, that may not seem like a lot, but the truth is that a lot of work goes into post-production before most films or videos are ready. Post-production takes into … Read more
Summer Camps 2022: Discover How we Theme our Filmmaking Summer Camps to Champion Creativity
Summer Shoots: Filmmaking Summer Camps As we approach the summer holidays, planning for our filmmaking summer camps is in full swing. The Summer Shoots are 5-day filmmaking summer camps for young filmmakers, which run each year from Sparks film schools around the UK. In each Summer Shoots summer camp, small crews of young filmmakers provide … Read more
How to Write Dialogue in a Screenplay? 5 Foolproof Strategies for Writing Better Dialogue
Writing dialogue convincingly in a screenplay can feel like a challenge, but if you can master writing dialogue, it can help take your script from mediocre to masterpiece. So, if you’re wondering how to write dialogue effectively in your screenplays, read on for our 5 foolproof strategies for writing dialogue for screen… 1. Write Dialogue … Read more
Film Acting Skills: 10 Breakthrough Skills to Boost Your Screen Acting Career
Film acting – or screen acting – is specific to acting performances for camera. It shares a lot of similarities with stage acting, but it’s also distinct from stage acting, especially in terms of techniques used in film acting. How is Film Acting Different to Stage Acting? Film acting requires different use of the body, … Read more
Learn about Filmmaking: 6 Simple Filmmaking Basics to Improve Your Film Skills
If you’re interested to learn about filmmaking, we know it can sometimes feel like a lot to learn. There is definitely lots involved to making a film, as well as lots of different techniques and ways to go about it. But it shouldn’t feel overwhelming or complicated to learn about filmmaking. Just like with any … Read more
Careers in Media: Discover 10 Interesting Jobs in Film and Media You Didn’t Know Existed
When you think about careers in media, lots of the obvious ones might spring to mind: film director, actor, TV presenter, perhaps camera operator. But behind the scenes, there are thousands of careers in media to get involved with. Just think of any feature film you’ve seen; how long do the end credits roll? Film … Read more
Film Editing: What Skills Do I Need to be Video Editor?
Working as a video editor, or elsewhere in post-production is all about attention to detail. Whether it’s working as a video editor for film or TV, or in a specialised area, attention to detail is a must-have skill. But what else? If you’re interested in a career as a video editor, take a look at … Read more
What Filmmaking Equipment Do I Need to be a Film Director? Our Easy Guide to Equipment
To be a film director, there are some basic items of filmmaking equipment that you’re likely to need. Obviously, a camera goes without saying, but which one? And what else? Depending on the nature of film you’re looking to make, your filmmaking equipment needs might vary. If you’re producing vlog content for your YouTube channel, … Read more
Top 10 Filmmaking Tips for Beginners
If you’re a beginner interested in learning about filmmaking, take a look at our Top 10 Filmmaking Tips for Beginners below. Whether you’re a complete beginner, or an experienced filmmaker, making a film can be challenging. It’s often a lot of work, and there are several traps you can easily fall into that can affect … Read more
Top 10 Best Film Schools in the UK
Are you an aspiring filmmaker? Want to study filmmaking at one of the best film schools in the UK? Take a look at our list of Top 10 Best Film Schools in the UK, where we share options for specialist film school training degrees in the UK. These film schools all offer high quality filmmaking … Read more
5 Fun Photography Activities for Kids
Whether you’re just starting out in photography, or you want to improve your photography skills, you can try out these 5 fun photography activities for kids. These photography activities for kids are designed to boost imagination and inspire creativity. They’re designed for children or young photographers, but adults can absolutely join in too. Take a … Read more
Get Confident on Camera: 6 Media Training Tips for Performing to Camera
Want to feel more confident on camera? Take a look at our 6 easy to apply tips to boost your confidence when performing to camera. Even the world’s top actors can feel under confident watching themselves back. As Zac Efron told Collider, “I tend to, especially the first time around, pick out every single flaw, … Read more
Comedy Screenwriting: 3 Easy Comedy Tips
Comedy screenwriting is one of the most difficult challenges of screenwriting. Just like it can be hard to tell a joke or a funny story, it can be even more difficult to write comedy well. Good comedy screenwriting needs to be original, surprising and full of the right styles. It’s not just about being funny, … Read more
Film Directing Skills: What Skills do I Need as a Film Director?
To be a film director, you require lots of varied film directing skills, especially if you want to be ‘successful’. (Success means different things to different people – more on that later). You need a strong imagination, great people and communication skills, and the ability to bring lots of people together around a shared vision. … Read more
Can Filmmaking Help with Children’s Mental Health?
As we mark Children’s Mental Health Week 2022, we’re taking a look at the different ways filmmaking and other activities can support with improving children’s mental health. Children’s mental health is at the forefront of conversation, with increasing rates of mental health referrals, increased anxieties and mental health concerns in children and young people. Recently … Read more
Film Courses: What Can I Expect to Learn?
If you’re interested to learn about film or filmmaking, then there are lots of different film courses you can explore: Full time film courses Part time film courses Face-to-Face film courses Online film courses Film Studies courses Filmmaking or film production courses Specialist filmmaking courses, e.g. animation or VFX courses… Whatever style or format of … Read more
Storytelling Ideas: National Storytelling Week
This week celebrates National Storytelling Week 2022. We’ve put together 10 creative storytelling ideas for inspiration and to help join in with National Storytelling Week. National Storytelling Week is a chance for everyone to join in and share a love of stories. Not only do stories reflect our history, our relationships and our understanding of … Read more
Eight Free Video Apps For Young Filmmakers in 2022
With a huge range of video apps at our fingertips, filmmaking has never been easier. Smart technology means a wealth of different video apps and software can be found inside our pockets, allowing us to create video masterpieces from anywhere in the world. Many video apps are either free or already installed on our phones … Read more
Nurturing Young Filmmakers: Why Does It Matter?
For many people who dream of one day making a film – young filmmakers included – the idea that one day you might be a professional film director or a producer might feel like a bit of a pipe-dream. It’s easy to see why. Traditionally, the film industry has been a workplace shrouded in mystery. … Read more
Is it Worth Attending an Elite Film School?
Firstly, by film school, here I’m talking about conservatoire style film schools. I’m not talking about part-time film schools, or extra-curricular filmmaking courses like the ones we offer. Conservatoire style film schools are specialist providers of vocational film training at a higher education or postgraduate education level. Examples of conservatoire-style film schools in the UK … Read more
Laughter is The Best Medicine: Writing Comedy Scripts For Films
Have you ever wanted to write a side-splittingly funny comedy screenplay? Producing a genuinely funny film script is not as easy as it might first appear. You might be able to get plenty of belly laughs when telling jokes out loud, but knowing and writing comedy scripts for films can be another thing altogether. Make … Read more
6 Terrifying Horror Movie Making Tips
As Halloween approaches it is the perfect time of year to settle in and watch some horror films. It’s also the perfect time to try making a horror film all of your own! Take inspiration from some spooky films you have watched and get planning for some terrifying horror movie making this October… So, how … Read more
How To Have a Spooktastic Time at Your Very Own Halloween Movie Night
The spookiest evening of the year is almost upon us. It’s time to start planning your very own Halloween movie night for your friends and family! Horror movies, devilish costumes and plenty of tricks and treats… Don’t know where to begin? Read on to find out some frightfully fantastic top tips! What You Need to … Read more
Ready For Your Close Up? What You Need To Know About Film Makeup and Costumes.
Are you a fan of the Oscars? Do you keep track of the winners of the BAFTA Awards every year? The news headlines that are generated after each glittering event tend to focus on who got the best actor award, best director prize, best film award etc. Less – if anything – tends to be … Read more
Top Tips For Trying Out For The School Play
Now that schools are back and pandemic restrictions are easing, many students are seeing the welcome return of the school play. Whether a pantomime is being planned, or a musical being made, it’s time to tread the boards at school once more. After such a long time without access to the drama department, competition for … Read more
Camera In Your Pocket? How To Make Films On a Phone
Move over, Spielberg, there’s a raft of new movie makers in town. Thanks to smart technology, we all have the means to make films on a phone or tablet. That includes filming, editing, sharing results and even ordering pizzas for the wrap party afterwards. Today, everyone can get involved in film making, using equipment you … Read more
Master Storyboarding
[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_color=”#007da5″ global_colors_info=”{}”] Why Storyboard? Your storyboard is a crucial resource to help plan for success when working on a movie. A well thought-out storyboard doesn’t just help you to keep production … Read more
Working with Quick Cut Camera Angles
In lots of ways, making videos is easy. You just take a camera and shoot, right? This is true, but making videos and working with camera angles well is an art . One of the things we tend to see from beginner filmmakers are types of camera shot which are unwieldy long takes and roving … Read more
Why should you choose media studies and study film at school?
The modern world is geared more and more towards screens and visual media. We get much of our news, entertainment, social contact and advertising via moving images on screens. why take media studies is an important question to the ones who are interested in media and film study. So, choosing to study film at school … Read more
5 Useful Acting for Camera Skills (from Stage)
[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”] Acting for Camera – How is it different? Acting for a camera, or screen acting, is very different from acting on a stage in front of a live audience. The … Read more
Life behind the lens part two: five more key non-acting roles in film
In the second of our series of blogs about film roles that operate ’behind the scenes’, we look at five more jobs that allow regular access to film sets and movie projects and offer exciting opportunities to get your hands dirty making a real movie. We have already looked at some of the main jobs … Read more
Life behind the lens part one: five key non-acting roles in film
Becoming a film star is often high up on young people’s lists of dream jobs they would love to do when they grow up. However, acting is just one aspect of making a movie. There is a whole army of talented professionals behind the cameras, working together to bring the initial movie concept to reality. … Read more
Easter Camps: Day 4
That’s a wrap on Day 4! Movie makers taking part in this week’s Easter camps are knee-deep in their productions, with just one day left to go. It’s been an action-packed few days, with movie makers developing their story ideas, working through pre-production and now shooting through most of their storyboards. They are making great … Read more
Easter Movie Making Camps: Day 3
That’s a wrap on Day 3 of this week’s movie making camps! Today has been an epic day of shooting, with all the movie makers starting work on filming their productions. There are movie makers in Studios 1-4 at nearly all the Sparks film schools. All the crews are making their own original and unique … Read more
Easter Camps: Behind the Scenes on Day 2
Easter Movie Making Camps – Day 2 The Easter Camp movie makers are making great progress on their productions today. After a day of introductions and getting started yesterday, they’ve moved onto developing their ideas, pitching and pre-production activities. This is all the preparation work that happens on a film production before shooting begins. The … Read more
Lights… Camera… Action! Behind the Scenes of Easter Movie Making Camps – Day 1
We’re behind the scenes on Day 1 of the first face-to-face movie making camps of 2021! Young movie makers joining us for this year’s Easter Holiday Camps are meeting for the first time. They’ll get their creativity flowing. They’ll start to share ideas and get to grips with the week’s challenge: to make a unique … Read more
An actor’s life for me? How to become a child actor
From the Harry Potter trainee wizards to the Sound of Music’s Von Trapp children, child actors have played a large part in many iconic films, TV programs, and theatre productions around the world. However, for every successful school-aged star that has made it big, there are quite literally thousands of hopeful young actors, singers, and … Read more
Behind The Scenes: October Half Term Highgate
[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.6.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.6.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.6.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_video src=”https://youtu.be/EzogLsQuiHQ” _builder_version=”4.7.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_video][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.6.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”] Congratulations to the October Half Term Crews in Highgate! [/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.6.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”] Over October Half Term our young filmmakers had the opportunity to create their … Read more
Behind the Scenes: October Half Term in Balham
[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.6.6″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.6.6″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.6.6″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.6.6″ _module_preset=”default”][/et_pb_code][et_pb_video src=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6p7I4H5jSis” _builder_version=”4.6.6″ _module_preset=”default”][/et_pb_video][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.6.6″ _module_preset=”default”] Congratulations to the October Half Term Crews in Balham! [/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.6.6″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″] Over October Half Term our young filmmakers had the opportunity to create their own action-packed, mystery-filled productions. The crews created mischief and mayhem with terrifying … Read more
Sparks Enfield & Sparks Walthamstow Launch Next Week
[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.6.6″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.6.6″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.6.6″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.6.6″ _module_preset=”default”] Our newest film schools – Sparks in Enfield and Sparks in Walthamstow – are set to launch with their first workshops on Monday! For October Half Term, the two new schools will be taking crew members off on scary movie adventures! The newest crew … Read more
Welcome back to Classes 🙂
[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.6.5″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.11.3″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″] Welcome back to all our young filmmakers! This weekend marked the start of a brand new autumn term. It was so good to be able to welcome … Read more
Saturday Shoots Confirmed
[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.5.6″ _module_preset=”default” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.5.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.5.6″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.13.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”] Saturday Shoots – Confirmed for September We’re so happy to let you know that our weekly filmmaking classes are confirmed to go ahead from September! We have missed seeing … Read more
Introducing Sparks Enfield!
[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.4.8″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.4.8″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.4.8″][et_pb_image src=”https://www.sparksarts.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Welcome-to-Enfield-1.jpg” alt=”Welcome to Sparks Film Clubs for Kids Enfield” title_text=”Welcome-to-Enfield” _builder_version=”4.4.8″][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.4.8″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.4.8″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.4.8″] Sparks Enfield – Launching October 2020 We’re delighted to share with you that a new branch of Sparks will be opening up in Enfield for October Half Term! The newest branch of Sparks … Read more
Movie Making Projects: Little People, Big World Animations
[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.5.0″ _module_preset=”default” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.5.0″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.5.0″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.5.0″ _module_preset=”default”] This week we have an animation challenge to get stuck into, using classic stop motion technique. We’re drawing inspiration from ‘Little People, Big World’ photography. Take a look at some of the examples below… … Read more
Movie Making Projects: Make a Movie with an Inanimate Character
[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.4.8″ hover_enabled=”0″ da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.4.8″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.4.8″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.11″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″] In this movie making project, we’re challenging young filmmakers to produce a film that stars an inanimate object as one of its lead characters. This might sound really strange, but … Read more
Latest Updates: Covid-19
[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.4.8″ da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.4.8″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.4.8″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.10″ text_line_height=”2em” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″] We Are Reopening! We plan to reopen in time for the summer holidays. We know that safety is still paramount. We’ll be introducing lots of new safety measures for face-to-face sessions and operating strict maximum … Read more
The Red Carpet Premiere 2019
[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.25.4″ da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25.4″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25.4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″] Congratulations to All the Young Filmmakers Last weekend, we hosted the annual Red Carpet Premiere at the ICA Cinema in London. It was a such an incredible occasion and so lovely to see so many young … Read more
Behind the Scenes in Kensington!
This week, young movie makers taking part in the Summer Shoots in Kensington are making their own unique movie productions. Over five days, the young movie makers will devise their stories, shoot their scenes, give their best onscreen performances and edit their way to movie making success.
Behind the Scenes: Summer Shoots, Day 1 in Dulwich
[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.25.4″ da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25.4″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25.4″][et_pb_video src=”https://youtu.be/UQM4N-X8ps0″ _builder_version=”3.25.4″][/et_pb_video][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.10″ hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″] It’s Day 1 of the Summer Shoots 2019! Join movie makers behind the scenes at the Summer Shoots movie making summer camps in Dulwich! Today, marks the start of the Summer Shoots, movie … Read more
The Stuff of Dreams & Nightmares
The Summer Shoots (our Movie Making Summer Camps) are on their way! We’re excited to share the details of this year’s theme! Every year we set a new challenge for young filmmakers. Each year there is a new collection of creative inspirations to explore. This year’s theme is “The Stuff of Dreams and Nightmares”. It’ll … Read more
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