FILMCLUB is a pilot scheme currently running in Wales, to inspire schoolchildren through the world of film by providing free access to thousands of classic and popular titles as well as to film industry news, events and talent.
Mr Brennan spoke to 30 members of the school’s film club aged between 9-11 and answered their questions about his favourite films and his role as a MP.
“Film Club is fun and educational. It gets youngsters to express themselves and broaden their horizons beyond the formulaic,” said Mr Brennan after the event.
“Everyone has a favourite film and it’s great fun to share it with others.”
The Deputy Head Teacher and FILMCLUB leader Lisa Mead welcomed the visit.
“It’s great the children have had this opportunity to meet their local MP and realise their voices can be heard," said Mrs Mead.
"FILMCLUB is a great asset to our pupils – it has enabled them to watch a wide range of films they wouldn’t normally see, from classics like ‘Bugsy Malone’ and ‘Born Free’ to Japanese animations like ‘Spirited Away’ and ‘Howl’s Moving Castle’, which, in turn is broadening their horizons and giving them ideas for their literacy work.”
Founded in 2008 by educationalist Lindsay Mackie and film-maker Beeban Kidron, FILMCLUB has been operating as a pilot scheme supported by Film Agency Wales, Skillset and, most recently, HSBC.
A recent survey of over 700 teachers and youngsters, including English and Welsh schools, reveals the scheme has a wide range of educational and social benefits including: improving literacy and critical reasoning skills, increasing confidence, increasing pupils’ enjoyment of school and – crucially – integrating isolated and disengaged children.
Among those who would like to see it extended are actor Michael Sheen, FILMCLUB’s ambassador for Wales.
“FILMCLUB is a wonderful project which has the potential to empower and inspire so many young people," said Michael.
"Films have educated me as much as school has and I wish I’d had something like this when I was at school.
"Through FILMCLUB young people in Wales can understand Welsh culture in the context of the wider world; they can broaden their horizons, be inspired to recognize their potential and tell their own stories so the rest of the world may one day hear them.”
Each week pupils are able to select from thousands of titles courtesy of LOVEFiLM, arranged in
special themes and seasons appealing directly to young people.
Members also post their own film reviews, enter competitions and find out more about the film industry through interviews and news features on FILMCLUB’s content-rich, interactive website.
Teachers are invited to take part in free induction sessions and receive ongoing web and telephone support, as well as access to free learning tools and recommendations by FILMCLUB’s resident movie experts.
FILMCLUB’s ‘Close Encounters’ programme of educational and inspiring school visits by world-famous industry specialists lifts the veil on filmmaking and opens up new paths for young people to explore.
For more information on FILMCLUB you can visit their website here.
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