Acting up in East Kalgoorlie

Students from East Kalgoorlie Primary School have showcased their filmmaking talents in a unique project set in the rugged bushland of the Goldfields.

As part of the Awesome Schools program by Awesome Arts, the Year 5 and 6 students wrote, produced, directed, and starred in their own survival-themed movie.

"We've been collaborating with Awesome Arts since roughly 2014," said teacher Lisa Adam.

"This year, we dove straight into coming up with a story for a movie, storyboarding it, and writing a script, before filming."

The project spanned two weeks. The first week focused on building acting skills and refining the storyline, while the second week involved filming and editing.

Under the guidance of artists Luke Ryan and Leith Alexander, the students immersed themselves in every aspect of production. They brainstormed ideas, developed storyboards, wrote scripts, and learned technical skills such as camera work and editing.

"The students gained confidence in acting on camera, writing scripts, directing, planning shots, and editing the film," Ms Adam added.

"The students really enjoyed every minute of it."

When asked what their favourite part of the project was, the students responded:

"Sitting with Ms Lisa acting because it was a funny scene," said Tarnece (Year 6)

"Being the production assistant, because it was fun to get all the stuff ready for set," said George (Year 5)

"Doing the sound, because it was fun," said Keeleigh (Year 6).

The project also provided valuable lessons beyond technical skills. When asked about the most interesting thing they learned about on the project, Year 6 Shannon responded, "the green screen because you got to change the background on scenes."

"You have to stay on track and follow a schedule to get everything done," added Lachlan (Year 6).

The project culminated in a movie premiere attended by the students who worked on the film.

Principal Sally Fowler praised the program, telling the Kalgoorlie Miner, "It's great to have Awesome Arts back for a second year in a row, it's a really powerful program for them (students) to be a part of."

Looking ahead, the students are looking at future filmmaking ventures, possibly exploring documentary-style filmmaking and vlogging.

The film is available to watch on the school’s Facebook page.

For more information about Awesome Schools, visit the Awesome Arts website.