An energetic, inventive term on the school field becomes a summer holiday of creative opportunity…

Over six months, BFMAF has been running an after-school film club at Tweedmouth West First School, led by artist Kathryn Elkin. Students in Years 3 and 4 worked together to make a short film called WILD THINGS which you can watch above.

At the after-school film club, students made shadow puppets, sound effects, short stories, props, and mini sets. They also learned how to make their own pictures and short films.

Full of colour, energy and imagination, the film celebrates the green space of the school field, where they are able to play freely, explore nature and share wild, creative ideas.

Using materials made during the after-school sessions, the film features 16mm direct animation and video footage shot by the children. It also features their drawings and outdoor crafts. The soundtrack is experimental, created using audio loops and the children’s writing.

School’s Out! Summer Holiday Filmmaking Challenge

The school field is one green space we love, what’s another?

We’re calling all young filmmakers! Make a short film (up to 5 mins) about an outdoor space near you — a place you love, hang out in, or dream about.

Tell us why it matters, show us the plants, animals, people, or vibes – fact or fiction, it’s your story to tell.

📸 Who Can Enter?

Young people aged 7 to 24 — no experience needed!

Categories:

• Junior (7–9)
• Pre-Teen (10–12)
• Early Teens (13–15)
• Later Teens (16–18)
• New Voices (19–24)

Note: Younger entrants should work with a grown-up.

🛠️ Use What You’ve Got

• Phone, tablet, or laptop – it’s about ideas, not fancy gear.
• Free editing apps: CapCut, InShot, iMovie, FlipaClip, DaVinci Resolve & more.

🎥 Your Film Can Be

• Documentary or drama
• Music video or animation
• Funny, serious, experimental — whatever suits your style!

🌍 Things to Think About

• A green space you love
• Somewhere new you’ve explored
• Time outside with friends or family
• Your vision for the future of that place
• What the planet or your community needs

🏆 Prizes!

• Your film on the big screen at a local cinema
• Mentoring with a professional filmmaker
• Days out + cinema tickets
• A place on a film course this Autumn

📅 Deadline: 29 August 2025

Got a green space and a story to tell? Grab your camera and get filming!

🎬 Any Questions?

Email Dawn on dawn@bfmaf.org