The Video College

The 'It takes all of us' campaign is designed to encourage more local people to get involved in their area or become a volunteer with one of the many organisations that need help across the borough. Sarah Martin, who works at the Video College, talked to Royal Borough about the exciting work the north Kensington organisation does with young people.

How did you become a part of The Video College?

I have lived in north Kensington for many years and was a member of a residents’ association in Wornington Green. The association began the college in response to the lack of exciting and engaging opportunities for local young people. We’ve now grown to four staff and a pool of about 15 industry professionals who teach the young people.

What does The Video College do?

We give people the opportunity to get hands-on experience of filmmaking and offer them advice on producing their own films – all free of charge. We have weekly sessions for 12 to 20 year-olds; on Tuesdays we have a drop-in session for anyone wanting to learn to use a camera or sound equipment, write screenplays or edit, direct and produce short films. On Thursdays we have our 'Incredible Films' sessions where members discuss, plan and make their own films. Each session is overseen by two industry professionals who give expert advice and share their industry experience. We also run accredited, industry-standard training courses for those over 18.

How successful has the college been?

It’s been very successful in several ways. Digital technology means that great films can be made without huge amounts of money and the young people who work with us are always producing exciting and creative work. Everyone involved in making a film gains new skills as they work in their team, plan the project and see it through to the final screening. We’ve worked with young offenders and seen people with significant problems make profound changes to their lives as a result of working as part of a team with supportive tuition.

How would you sum up The Video College?

It’s always great fun and people come away with practical experience in filmmaking that can mean access to the competitive media industry. I believe this is particularly important in developing a fairer society because the media sometimes relies too much on wealthy and well-connected people. That’s why we work with migrant and refugee groups and schools. We believe that people coming together with a common purpose helps individuals to become more confident and communities to become stronger.

The Video College’s free sessions for young people are held at 16 Telford Road, W10, between 5pm and 7pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays and in half-terms and holidays. To find out more or volunteer as a tutor call 020 8964 2641 or email: thevideocollege@ukonline.co.uk