Ballynahinch to be the base for Province’s first ever film school

Ballynahinch to be the base for Province’s first ever film school

9 January 2013

BALLYNAHINCH is home to Northern Ireland’s first ever school dedicated to film making and broadcast journalism.

The South Eastern Regional College has launched the new school at its Church Road campus in the town.

The Northern Ireland Film School — as it will be known — will provide a unique opportunity for school leavers who will have access to dedicated higher education training.

And those already working in the film and television industry will have the chance to attend master classes delivered by experts.

Film School co-ordinator Campbell Miller said a gap was identified in the market, with even South Eastern Regional College lecturers having to attend training in England.

“The NI Film School caters both for those who are starting out in the industry, as well as those who are already employed and need professional development,” he explained.

“The school will focus on broadcast journalism and professional film making and the first full-time course is well underway. The HNC in Creative Media Production is an innovative two year programme with an immersive learning approach.”

Campbell said the focus was on a practical learning experience where programme participants will make real film and television shows in the industry standard studio which is based at the Ballynahinch campus.

“Throughout the course, there will be opportunities to make connections with industry professionals, work on location in Northern Ireland and throughout Europe,” he continued.

“Ultimately, students will gain a qualification but, just as importantly, will also develop the practical skills that employers are looking for.”

Students will be involved producing news stories, documentaries and professional films first-hand.

In addition, they will learn about sound design, camera, interview and presentation techniques, research for media production and project management.

The course runs three days a week and will prepare participants for employment as well as provide a pathway into a degree.

A number of the South Eastern Regional College’s HNC students recently visited UTV’s Ormeau Road studios in Belfast when Nathan McKee was named “most promising media student” on the day.