Students create educational film (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Students create educational film

11:42am Saturday 12th July 2008 in Wiltshire By Gazette Reporter

Young people with learning difficulties are making their own DVD about how to cope with the transition from school to work, college or independent living after the age of 16.

The film is being made by young people themselves with the help of specialist filmmakers.

They are producing a ten-minute DVD in which young people speak about their experiences of moving on.

Students from Larkrise and Devizes schools are taking part, along with others from Wiltshire College Trowbridge and Fairfield Farm College.

All four groups of students have attended initial sessions where they were introduced to the skills of scripting and film making. Four filming days are taking place in early July.

The film will be premiered at a special celebration event at the Corn Exchange, Devizes on July 22, with parents, VIPs and young people invited. The DVD will then be shown in youth centres and other venues throughout Wiltshire.

Connexions Personal Adviser Paul Myles, who is working with the young people on the project, said it will enable young people with learning difficulties and disabilities to get their views across.

"The film will include young people talking about their experiences of transition from school to college, work, training, supported living and adult services."

Shahina Johnson, from Mobile Media, said the initial sessions had been very successful: "The project is helping the students to develop skills in teamwork, communication and IT and is a great boost to their confidence."