Yvonne Manning, Principal Librarian, Curriculum Support Team, Falkirk Council Education Services organised a project with looked after and accommodated young people who worked with storytellers and an animator to create a film. The project was funded by Awards for All and is an example of very effective partnership work between Education, Social Work, Lisa Kapur Forde (Arts Development Officer, Falkirk Community Trust), storytellers – Ruth Kirkpatrick and Claire McNicol, musicians and Wrighteye film makers. The launch of the film took place in Falkirk Town Hall on 22/3/13. It was a wonderful occasion to celebrate the achievements of the young people. The storytellers and the young people told the story that they had created and then the film was shown. The film shows the group in Meadowbank Library working together on the story, making the characters, shooting the scenes and then viewing the animation of the story. The song that accompanies the story was written and sung by one of the young people. The film can be viewed by clicking this link – Tear Drops on the Wings
Feedback after the launch was exceptional, here is just a snapshot of what people said:
‘What a fantastic and moving film. The music was wonderful and fitted perfectly with the story and the animation. I was blown away by the whole event and by the talent and ability of the young people. Thank you.’ Chief Governance Officer, Falkirk Council.
‘This has by far the best thing that’s happened for me for ages, thanks for sharing your work, talent and experiences. I would be delighted if you would be prepared to show the film and tell the story at the Falkirk Parents and Families Workshop on 9th October 2013. I think you could inspire so many more people there!, Thank you!!’ Co-ordinator, Children’s Services, Falkirk Council.
‘Incredible! I was unbelievably impressed with the quality of the film. Thank you so much for giving us the chance to see it. You are all brilliant. Well done!!’ Clinical Psychologist.
‘Well done all involved. A brilliant team effort. Hope to see your film again soon. Thank you so much!’ Child Health Commissioner, N.H.S. Forth Valley.
‘Excellent show, the young people have shown how much talent they have. Through this film they have hopefully addressed some issues they have, they worked very well together, social skills proven, feelings revealed etc. Well done to everyone who encouraged and taught, helped make this film. What next for these young people, they need to get to the next stop. BRAVO!!’ A Grandmother
‘… Wow! Wonderful achievement to everyone who participated in the movie. It was a lovely story well written. The film makers were great and the music was showstopping! Simply stunning! Wonderful music. To all of you, I wish you every success in the future. Keep working hard; Keep positive: Keep doing good work and Thank You I loved it.’ Councillor, Falkirk Council.
And what next?
To nominate the film for an Award.
The young people will tell their story and show the film at a Parent and Families Workshop event in Falkirk Council in October 2013.
CELCIS (Centre for Excellence for Looked After Children in Scotland) are very interested in showcasing the film at their annual conference in October 2013.
Education Scotland are very interested in sharing the project as an example of good practice.
A connection has been established between the Homes and Meadowbank Library. The young people all received a library membership card and borrowed books from the library. The plans to reinforce this connection include a trip to the Edinburgh International Book Festival in August; library staff will visit the Homes in advance of the trip to read ‘tasters’ from the books by the author(s) with whom the young people will meet.
At least two of the young people have been offered opportunities to further explore their musical interest and talent from the musicians and producer involved in the project.
The young people who were involved in this project wanted it to continue and other young people are now very keen to be involved in a similiar project. With this in mind, Yvonne Manning, Lisa Kapur Forde and Jenny Kane (Leaving Care Service) are looking at other potential funding sources and build on the success.
