In the heart of London’s bustling Piccadilly, excitement and anticipation filled the air as Hampden Gurney C of E School students, along with their families, embarked on a memorable journey to the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA). This unique adventure was part of the Young BAFTA Showcase, a day filled with immersive workshops and activities tailored for young minds eager to explore the realms of creativity and presentation skills.
As they arrived at the BAFTA HQ to collect their complimentary tickets, parents and children alike felt an immediate sense of belonging as they stepped into the iconic BAFTA venue.
The agenda for the day was nothing short of spectacular, promising a diverse range of activities across Young BAFTA initiatives. From Young Creators to Young Game Designers and Young Presenters, the event catered to a broad age group, with a focus on 7-14 year olds. The anticipation was palpable as the doors swung open at 11 am, marking the beginning of a day packed with creativity and inspiration.
The Princess Anne Theatre, a hub of excitement, hosted a series of engaging presentations throughout the day. The BAFTA Young Presenters took centre stage, showcasing their talents and sharing insights into their journeys. Highlights included an insightful conversation with voiceover artist Lizzie Waterworth (the voice of Horrid Henry!), exploring the power of performance skills for everyday confidence, and an animated discussion with director Simone Giampaolo on how film can be a catalyst for change.
Meanwhile, on the third floor in the Run Run Shaw Theatre, families were treated to exclusive screenings of partner content and immersive sessions delving into the world of Nickelodeon trailers. Attendees gained firsthand knowledge of the creative process behind transforming an idea on paper into a captivating 30-second trailer for popular shows.
The second floor housed the Creative & Future Galleries, where young presenters honed their skills, experimenting with autocues and participating in timed workshops with Lizzie Waterworth. The highlight for many was the chance to pose with a large BAFTA award, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
The first floor’s Ray Dolby Room buzzed with energy as young minds immersed themselves in a Young Game Designers concept design workshop. Industry guests from Tt Games guided them through the intricacies of game design, while other stations offered hands-on experiences with games from partners and the latest YGD winners. Creative competitions, craft-making sessions, and a photobooth added to the vibrant atmosphere.
As the clock approached 4 pm, bringing the event to a close, the students of Hampden Gurney left BAFTA with hearts full of inspiration, minds buzzing with new ideas, and a newfound appreciation for the world of film, television, and creative expression. The Young BAFTA Showcase had not only provided a day of entertainment but had ignited the spark of creativity in each young mind, leaving a lasting impact on the students of Hampden Gurney C of E School.
By Abi Goldsbrough