Documentaries from local Elstree students receive premiere at Sky’s European headquarters

Documentaries produced by dozens of local students from across Elstree and Borehamwood received a premiere screening at Sky’s European headquarters last month, in an event attended by parents, teachers and industry guests.

The screening was the culmination of an 18-month partnership between Sky Studios Elstree and local college Elstree Screen Arts (ESA), which saw Sky provide industry mentors, insights and training to young filmmakers, helping them to create a four-part documentary project about the film and TV heritage of their local area.

At the event students from ESA saw their documentaries premiere on the silver screen at the custom-built Sky Cinema. Students also heard from a panel of industry and production experts from Sky’s comedy, sports and documentary teams as they shared career advice and tips.

Chris Mitchell, principal, Elstree Screen Arts, said: “We are so excited to have Sky Studios Elstree right on our doorstep and our students are already benefitting from creative and professional opportunities. We look forward to working closely as we build on this long-term partnership.”

Caroline Cooper, chief operating officer, Sky Studios, said: “We have been blown away by the student’s enthusiasm and talent over the past 18 months. This event marks the end of this specific project, but the beginning of our next chapter of partnership with Elstree Screen Arts. We are excited to continue to work closely with ESA and other local schools as we become a training ground for the next generation of talent across Hertsmere.”

Last month’s event follows the recent hire of Lauren Christy, Sky Studios Elstree’s new talent manager, who is tasked with ensuring productions at Sky Studios Elstree crew up with the best local talent, while working closely with schools in the area to provide training to the next generation of TV and film-making talent.

Just last month, 12 school leavers and graduates joined the Sky Content Academy which will give them experience in all aspects of studio life, from lighting and rigging to working hand in hand with productions.