Film academy to open doors to young people in the school holidays

An award-winning film academy in Blaenau Gwent is opening its doors to children in the school holidays.

Cymru Creations in Tredegar has received £5000 from the Gwent High Sheriff's Fund to run extra workshops at its Blaenau Gwent Film Academy.

The company works with hundreds of young people to create films based on experiences from their own lives. They are responsible for developing the stories, writing the scripts, acting, filming and editing.

Kevin Phillips of Cymru Creations said: “Film courses like this are usually expensive, so this funding is giving young people an opportunity that they wouldn’t otherwise have. It is fantastic to watch the young people learn new skills, develop and grow as individuals and as a team as the weeks progress.

"We have a huge waiting list and this money means we can open our doors to even more young people."

The Gwent High Sheriff’s Fund aims to provide a safer and better quality of life for people in Gwent by supporting projects that help reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.

High Sheriff, Prof Simon Gibson, CBE, DL said: The Cymru Creations Film Academy continues to provide an excellent opportunity for young people to experience media production. They also get visibility of future career opportunities. Last year the team were recognised with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, which is a testament to their community outreach.”

The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner contributes £65,000 to the fund. 

Police and Crime Commissioner Jeff Cuthbert said: "We have been keen supporters of Cymru Creations for many years, and I am delighted they have secured this extra funding to allow more young people to take part in workshops.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for young people and will help them to learn new skills, make new friends and channel their energy into something creative."