If you’ve ever watched a child light up when they realise they can turn an idea into something real, you’ll understand why Tom Mavromichaelis does what he does.
Tom is the Director of Sparks Film School Islington, and he’s recently taken on the leadership of two more Sparks studios: Sparks Film School Stoke Newington and Sparks Film School Walthamstow. Tom and his team are bringing the same friendly, confidence-building filmmaking Sparks experience that’s become known in Islington to two more neighbourhoods.
Tom has spent more than 20 years teaching film and media. He’s worked across media production and as a videographer, and he’s particularly known for his love of post-production, which he calls ‘the part of filmmaking where the story truly comes alive’.
But ask Tom what inspires him, and it isn’t the software or the kit. It’s the moment a young filmmaker realises they can shape a story, solve a problem, and make something they’re proud to share.
“Helping young people discover their confidence and creativity is a real privilege,” he says. “We’re excited for this next chapter and for all the new stories our young filmmakers will create together.”
Originally from Keighley in West Yorkshire, Tom’s route into film education has always had a strong academic backbone. He studied History at Newcastle University (BA Hons), before specialising further at Bradford University, where he gained a BSc Hons in Electronic Imaging and Media Communication.
From Yorkshire to the Cutting Room
That mix, storytelling on one side, technical craft on the other is a big part of how Tom approaches teaching. It’s not just about making something that looks good. It’s about learning how stories work, how teams collaborate, and how to keep going when a scene doesn’t quite land the first time.
Outside the studio, Tom is married with two children, and he’s a long-time fan of film, television, literature and sport, the kind of interests that make it easy for him to connect with young people who arrive with wildly different tastes and personalities.
Growing the Sparks Film School family – with care
The move to support Stoke Newington and Walthamstow is a growth moment, but it’s also a continuity moment. Both centres already have communities of families and young creatives, and Tom’s focus is on strengthening what’s there.
“We’re thrilled to be growing our Sparks Film School family and can’t wait to bring even more creativity, filmmaking fun, and positive energy to these brilliant studios,” he says. “Both schools already have fantastic communities, and we’re really looking forward to supporting them and helping our students to thrive.”
He’s also quick to shine a light on the people who make the sessions feel the way they do.
“Our team has built something really special in Islington. We’re so proud of the warmth, enthusiasm and talent they bring to every session,” Tom says. “We know that the team will bring that same spirit to Stoke Newington and Walthamstow.”
Founder and Director Dan Farrell is delighted that Tom is bringing the Sparks magic to Stoke Newington and Walthamstow. He shared with us:
“I always enjoy visiting Tom’s workshop sites in Islington. Tom leads a really creative team of passionate filmmakers who are driven to create meaningful environments where young filmmakers can master the craft of filmmaking. So, I can’t wait to see what his team bring to the lovely communities of Stoke Newington and Walthamstow.”
Sparks Film School Stoke Newington and Walthamstow
If your child loves stories, movies, YouTube, animation, acting, drawing — or simply trying new things — filmmaking can be a brilliant next step. It’s practical, collaborative and creative, and it gives young people a chance to see their ideas take shape.
Families in Stoke Newington and Walthamstow can look out for upcoming classes and holiday camps, with February Half Term, Easter and Summer programmes lined up for 2026 at Sparks Film School Stoke Newington and Sparks Film School Walthamstow.
For now, it’s a warm welcome from Tom and the Islington team — and an exciting new chapter for young filmmakers across all three studios.
Tom is a franchisee for Sparks Film Schools. If you’d like to find out more about joining the Sparks Film School family as a franchisee, get in touch.
