Our aim at Green Lens Initiative is to work collaboratively with schools to support better educational attainment for young people that may be harder to reach as result of additional needs and may require guidance and/or more targeted holistic support to address their attainment. The aim is to support this cohort of young people better understand the filmmaking process, from pre to post production, and most importantly to tell the stories they feel matter to them most. This in return raises aspiration and educational attainment. 

​

At The Green Lens Initiative, we help young people find a sense of purpose and build self-esteem in a world that is always changing. We give them the chance to share their own stories through film, aiming to inform, educate, and inspire others. Research has shown that making films can provide a fresh perspective on the challenges young people encounter.

 Step by step process 

• Free consultation with school to establish area of need amongst young people 

• Establish a group of 5 -15 young people who would benefit from this programme 

• Green Lens will then tailor learning sessions around the young people's areas of need

• Agree with school times and dates of programme delivery 

• Start delivering programmes, ensuring full engagement from young people

• Keep school fully informed on progress and any other areas.

Aims and objectives of programme 

At Green Lens Initiative, we collaborate with schools to inspire and support students, especially those with additional needs. We work together with schools to focus on their specific areas and topics which may require focus, while giving young people the chance to take charge and explore different possibilities for their future. Here are some benefits for young people:​​

​

• Learning essential skills for film production, guided by industry experts.

• Improving their English through writing scripts for films on topics they choose.

• Developing interview skills by studying journalistic questioning, which will help during job interviews.

• Building confidence by seeing themselves on screen and learning new abilities.

• Addressing any specific needs identified by the school during the learning process.

• Gaining IT skills through editing and visual storytelling.​

​​

    Example timetable

 The programme balances theory, hands-on practice, and collaboration in an engaging and accessible process. All whilst allowing young people to take ownership of their learning.

 Introduction to Documentary Filmmaking 

Total Duration: 15 hours (3 hours per day)

Location: at school 

Focus: Creative storytelling, technical skills, teamwork, whilst addressing any needs highlighted by school

Day 1: Introduction to Documentary Filmmaking

Theme: What is a Documentary?

​

1. Icebreaker & Group Discussion (30min) What is a documentary?and What stories matter to you? 

2. Types of Documentaries (30 min) Watch and discuss short clips from different styles (e.g., observational, participatory, expository).

3. Storytelling Basics (1 hr)  Understanding narrative, themes, and structure.

4. Mini Activity (1 hr)  In small groups, brainstorm and pitch a short documentary idea based on personal experiences or local community issues.

​

Day 2: Planning & Pre-Production

Theme: Developing Your Documentary Idea

​

1. Choosing a Topic (30 min) Refining documentary ideas and writing a short synopsis.

2. Introduction to Interviewing (1 hr)  How to ask great questions and conduct interviews. Role-playing practice.

3. Basic Storyboarding (30 min) Mapping out shots and structuring the story visually.

4. Location & Production Planning (1 hr) Planning where to shoot, what equipment is needed, and assigning team roles (director, camera, sound, etc.).

​

Day 3: Filming Techniques & Practical Skills

Theme: Learning to Shoot a Documentary

​

1. Camera Basics (45 min) Framing, composition, movement, and angles.

2. Sound & Lighting (45 min) Using natural light, setting up simple lighting, and recording clear audio.

3. Hands-on Filming Practice (1.5 hr) Groups practice filming interviews, capturing emotion, and using different shots to tell a story.

Day 4: Filming in the Field

Theme: Real-World Documentary Filming

​

1. Finalising Story & Shot List (30 min) Quick review and adjustments before heading out.

2. Filming in Small Groups (2 hr) Participants go to locations, conduct interviews, and capture footage.

3. Review & Feedback (30 min)  Share footage and discuss what worked and what can be improved.

Day 5: Editing & Final Screening

Theme: Bringing It All Together

​

1. Introduction to Editing (1 hr) Using industry and beginner-friendly software  DaVinci Resolve.

2. Hands-on Editing Session (1.5 hr)  Cutting clips, adding sound, and refining the story.

3. Final Screening & Discussion (30 min) Showcase each groups short documentary and reflect on the process.

​

The above is an example timetable which is open to change depending on the needs of the school, for example it can be spread over two weeks or longer and can be used as an incentive for attainment in other areas of the young persons education.  

​

​

​