Filmmaking in the Classroom

This course is primarily for primary, secondary, and special school teachers in Scotland, though anyone who works regularly in educational settings may apply. There’s no pre-requisite in filmmaking required. Whether you’re a complete beginner, a Media teacher looking to further develop your technical skills, or a Maths teacher who wants to use filmmaking in the classroom this course will develop you in technical, creative, and educational skills in film and screen to enhance your professional teaching practice. 

What will I learn on the course?

On this course you will learn about technical skills in filmmaking, from camera and sound operation, to editing and other post-production processes. You will also learn creative skills in short film writing as well as project management skills, taking you through pre-production, production, and post-production processes to enable you to gain confidence in filmmaking and film project management, making your own short film in the process.

By the end of the course what will I be able to do?

On completion of the course, you’ll be able to understand:

• the technical and creative fundamentals of short drama filmmaking;
• understand how to plan, shoot, and edit a short film;
• short film narrative and different methods for story development;
• how to use filmmaking software, from filmmaking apps to editing software; 
• film language and film’s place in Scotland’s curriculum; and
• different methods of managing a short filmmaking project with young learners.

How is the course delivered?

The course is taught using a hybrid model of in-person and online sessions.

There will be three face-to-face sessions at SEE’s premises in North Edinburgh. These will take place in weeks 2, 4, and 7 of the course on Saturdays. The first will be a full day session (9-5pm) and will involve a practical filmmaking workshop. The second will be a 6 hour session (9-3pm) and will be a collaboration and planning session with more practical training. The third is an editing session and will run from 10-2pm).

The remaining sessions on the course will be 2 hour online sessions running in the evening*.

How long does the course last for and how much time will I have to spend on it each week?

The course lasts for four months, between October 2023 and February 2024. It would be expected that you would spend around 5 hours a week undertaking independent study out with class time.

Does the course have an assessment and if so what sort of assessment will it be?

You will be required to do two assessments to complete this course.

1. A 2000-word reflective journal.

2. A short film (no longer than 5 minutes) with accompanying production documents.

Who will be teaching me?

This module is delivered by Dr Laura Findlay from Screen Education Edinburgh (SEE), with support from film tutors at SEE.

What equipment will I need for this course?

You will require access to a computer or laptop, internet connectivity and a webcam.

For filmmaking purposes you will need a device such as a phone, tablet, or iPad. All other equipment will be provided.

Student support/access to facilities

For the duration of your course you will be able to make use of our on-campus learning resource centre as well as access to our full range of online resources, including e-books and academic journals.

You will also have limited, mainly online access to Student Services support. Students with particular support requirements can contact the Disability Service.

As you will be studying with us for less than a full academic year you will not be provided with a personal academic tutor (PAT). However, any queries regarding your studies should be directed to the staff member leading the delivery of your course.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have any undergraduate degree and relevant professional experience teaching in Scottish schools. 

English Language requirements: This course is taught and assessed in English. Applicants do not need to provide proof of their English Language skills when applying for this course, but all applicants should consider whether they have sufficient English competence to study at this level. Applicants for this level of study would usually be able to demonstrate a level of English equivalent to IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component score below 6.0

Fees (and free places)

This course is supported by Screen Scotland who have funded a number of free places for teachers and other educators based in Scotland. If you meet these criteria and wish to be considered for one of the free places on the course, please detail this in your application.

Please note: free places are limited, and subject to availability.

Fees: £865

Application

Apply for Filmmaking in the Classroom

Application deadline

22 September 2023

2 October 2023

NB This course will run depending on numbers registered. Confirmation of commencement will be 4 weeks in advance of the start date.

Contact Admissions