The Programme
The Film School specialises in teaching on film and with film. It's the
only industry-run school in New Zealand and is unique with its visiting
tutor programme, where tutors come into the school direct from the
industry. We know the film industry is a volatile, creative and challenging milieu, so
we provide you with the training and support to fulfil your aspirations.
Overview
For 2012 The Film School is running a one-year Certificate course, the Introduction to Film and Television Production course, with an intake in February and another in July. This course is approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority under the provisions of the Education Act 1989 and the Film School is accredited to teach it.
The course is approved at Level 5 on the Qualifications Framework. Students are expected to attend for a minimum of 34 hours per week. In order to apply for a place on the course, students must have reached the age of eighteen years, and it is preferable that they have a full driving licence.
Students graduate with The Film School's own Certificate, which is recognised by the film and television industry.
How we work
Learning to be a filmmaker isn't something that be can be taught from a
book. Here at The Film School you learn-by-doing, through a combination
of hands-on experience and visiting tutors who are experts in their
fields, and enough supporting theory to backup the practical
applications. You gain experience at writing, directing and editing, in
lighting, camerawork and sound.
The Film School aims to prepare students in a realistic and practical way to take up a career in the film industry. The policies and practices of the School reflect current industry standards, and aim to replicate as closely as possible the workplace environment.
Each week students are issued with a call-sheet which outlines the week’s programme and requirements. Students are expected to be in attendance at the School from 8.45am until 4.45pm each weekday and to attend for extended hours if required for curriculum-based purposes.
The year is divided into two 18-week semesters with study breaks between them. Some pre-production or post-production work may be required during study breaks. The July intake has a break of eight to ten weeks (this may vary) over the summer between Semesters 1 and 2.
What you'll do
The course is delivered through both classroom and project-based learning. Students have the opportunity to test theory on a range of practical projects. During the year students work together to make a number of short films including at least one drama and one documentary. The course culminates with production of several end-of year projects in the second half of the second semester, managed as if they were professional productions. These films are generally screened at the graduation ceremony.
As the year progresses students are given assistance to select the area(s) of the industry in which they wish to seek employment and have opportunities to work in these specific areas on student productions. From the year’s work, students will be able to compile a showreel, which should showcase these areas.