PUPILS in year six at Beacon Hill School are venturing into the world of film this term and their exciting journey started with the arrival of a special parcel, all the way from the USA, containing six very important bears.

In a letter, the bears explained they were all intent on becoming famous movie stars and were depending on the class to propel them to stardom.

To help them with their mission, the pupils spent a day at Warner Studios, where they received an invaluable workshop and learnt about the film making process from the initial idea, to the raising of funding, script writing and production. They were also able to see the range of props they might need as well as consider camera angles for the most effective shot.

On returning to the classroom, the work of writing scripts began, each featuring one of the bears.

To assist with some of the more adventurous scenes, pupils were fortunate to receive expert advice from stunt co-ordinator, Tony Lucken (pictured with the pupils), who came into school to share some tricks of the trade.

Tony has appeared in many very well-known films and TV programmes including Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, carried out stunts in many episodes of Doctor Who and Casualty and is stunt co-ordinator in the recent Sweeney film.

The school’s movies are currently being filmed and edited with the help of ICT specialist pupils from Woolmer Hill School and will be revealed to staff and parents on the school’s ‘Oscar’ night, to be held before the end of term.

In true Hollywood style, invited guests are being asked to dress up, walk the red carpet and enjoy the entertainment.

Once the votes have been counted, presentations of Oscar statuettes, made by year six children, will be awarded in a range of categories.

Year six teacher David Crew said: “This is a great project which allows the children to show their creativity and use a whole range of literacy and computing skills; from script writing to storyboarding, filming and set design to editing. This is an experience they will never forget.It promises to be a night to remember!”