Teachers, school governors and education experts came together last week to hear how the arrival of the new film studios in Barking and Dagenham will benefit the borough’s pupils.

 

Hot topics included education and training, employment, and wider community benefits such as special events and afterschool clubs.

The workshop marked the launch of Film Barking and Dagenham’s Make It Here programme, which focuses on uniting all film & tv related activity happening in the borough.

Over the coming months, schools will work with two organisations to review how film and TV skills can be incorporated into curriculums to provide students with the necessary skills to make the most of the opportunities that will be ava

 

Leader of the Council, Councillor Darren Rodwell, said: “Barking and Dagenham is going to be transformed by the arrival of the film studios, bringing thousands of jobs and fantastic career opportunities that just a few years ago would have been unthinkable. 

 

“We want our residents, students and local businesses – to have a front row seat when it comes to making the most of these chances, which is why we are excited at the idea of being able to build a long-lasting, sustainable relationship between our schools and the film industry.”

 

More than 50 people attended the event, which was held at Dagenham East on Thursday 26 May.

 

Carey Fitzgerald, Managing Director of BOTV (Business of Film &TV), said: “It was fabulous to meet everyone from all areas of education in the borough and to be able to let them know from an industry point of view, the sheer volume of job and career opportunities that the Eastbrook Film Studios will create for their students.

 

“The whole area will be transformed and will bring a vast amount of training, jobs and career opportunities to Barking and Dagenham for many generations to come.”

 

Sector Lead for Film, Anna Wilson, one of the event organisers, said: “We’re delighted to have launched the Make It Here programme with such a well-attended event, bringing together education and industry leaders to help shape opportunities for the borough. 

 

“Our vision to create learning and career pathways into the screen industries begins with students, teachers and parents, and such lively and engaged conversations can only bode well for the future.”

 

For more information visit filmbarkinganddagenham.com.