Communities Minister Visits Antrim Grammar School to View Film Education Initiatives
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons visited Antrim Grammar School to observe Northern Ireland Screen's creative education and careers programs. The visit centered on Into Film initiatives including ScreenWorks and Story Builder.
The Department for Communities allocated £352,000 to the scheme. Lyons met students who built a replica of a robot from the Star Wars film franchise.
Lyons expressed support for Into Film's work in Northern Ireland. He noted the region's leadership in film education resources and careers programs across the UK.
He stated that Northern Ireland Screen's approach makes creativity, cultural access, and careers available through schools. Lyons described the creative industries as a major growth area with opportunities from screen technology developments.
The minister emphasized that talent pipelines and education in creative and digital skills will help young people access local jobs.
Richard Williams, Chief Executive of Northern Ireland Screen, said the screen industry provides careers in writing, directing, animation, visual effects, and production. He added that Into Film and ScreenWorks offer hands-on experience, industry knowledge, and confidence to students.