Communities Minister Gordon Lyons visited Antrim Grammar School to examine creative education and career development programmes run by Northern Ireland Screen.

The visit focused on the Story Builder and Into Film - ScreenWorks schemes, which received £352,000 in funding from the Department for Communities. Students showed the minister a replica they built of the Star Wars droid R2D2.

Lyons expressed support for Into Film's work in Northern Ireland. He noted pride in the region's leadership in film education resources and careers programmes across the UK.

He described Northern Ireland Screen's approach to creativity, cultural access and careers through schools as successful, with Into Film playing a central role. Lyons highlighted creative industries as a growth sector, especially in screen technology, creating opportunities for young people.

The minister stressed the need for talent pipelines and education that develops creative and digital skills while raising career awareness to help youth access local jobs.

Richard Williams, chief executive of Northern Ireland Screen, stated that the screen industry provides careers in writing, directing, animation, visual effects and production. He emphasised the importance of clear pathways into these roles for young people.

Williams said that with Department for Communities support, Into Film and ScreenWorks offer initiatives that enhance moving image arts. These provide students hands-on experience, industry knowledge and confidence to reach their potential, building the local creative workforce.