Kerry Film Festival Children's Workshops

Listowel Presentation Primary Schools 4th Class enjoying the recent KFF workshops

Kerry Film Festival has been on the road in recent months bringing a series of film appreciation workshops to primary schools across the county. The workshops gave pupils an opportunity to view a selection of the winning short films from last year's Kerry Film Festival and award stars to their favourites. They were also encouraged to think about various aspects of film-making and have a go at designing their own movie characters.

The free workshops have been tailored to suit primary school children from first to sixth class and are designed to encourage an enthusiasm for film. It's hoped that instilling a love of film as young as possible will inspire the next generation of Irish film makers and maintain Ireland's and Kerry's reputation as a hub of creativity and imagination.

"Ireland has always been known for its literary output and Kerry has produced more than its fair share. If Ireland can produce would class writers then there's no reason on earth it can't produce world class film makers," said Kerry Film Festival Director, Jason O' Mahony.

"If you listen to directors like Peter Jackson and Steven Spielberg they always say that their love of film making started when they were kids, and that's exactly what we're trying to engender - a love of film making in children. We want the next generation's Spielberg to come from Kerry!"

Kerry Film Festival's Education Coordinator Edwina Neilan, says she has been very impressed with the enthusiasm and creativity of the students especially when designing their characters. "It's very inspiring to witness the students' imaginations at work and we hope to include as many of their designs as possible in this years festival programme."

Due to the overwhelming interest from primary schools all over County Kerry the workshops are due to resume after the summer break and Edwina is encouraging interested primary schools to get involved.

For more information on Kerry Film Festival's education programme please contact 066 7129934 or email Edwina on edwina@kerryfilmfestival.com