BFF 2026
Schools Program
Inspiring the next generation of storytellers and filmmakers
At Bangalow Film Festival, we believe cinema has the power to inspire, educate and open young minds to new ideas and creative possibilities.
Since its inception, the Festival has placed young audiences at the heart of its programming, presenting specially curated film screenings, immersive live performances and creative experiences for students from Kindergarten through to Year 12.
Over three festival editions, more than 1,000 students from 18 regional schools have participated in these experiences, meeting filmmakers and industry professionals and discovering the many creative disciplines that bring stories to the screen.
FOR TEACHERS & STUDENTS
Bringing cinema into the classroom - and beyond
Our Schools Program combines film screenings, live experiences, interactive presentations and practical workshops, with activities tailored to different age groups and learning stages.
01
Film Screenings
Specially curated film screenings for students, including filmmaker-led sessions introduced by the filmmakers themselves and followed by extensive Q&As.
02
Industry Presentations
Meet filmmakers and industry professionals and discover the people, skills and creative processes behind the moving image.
03
Hands-on Workshops
Explore the art and craft of cinema through soundtrack composition, sound recording, documentary filmmaking, stunt performance and film poster design.
Beyond developing creative skills, the Schools Program aims to nurture curiosity, encourage collaboration and critical thinking, and introduce young people to the diverse career pathways available within the screen industries.
We welcome enquiries from primary and secondary schools interested in participating in our upcoming Schools Program. Teachers and educators are invited to get in touch to learn more about future screenings, workshops and opportunities for their students.
OUR STORY
Connecting young minds with the magic of cinema
In 2024, we expanded our educational offering with a dedicated series of film industry presentations and hands-on workshops, designed to introduce students to the people, skills and creative processes behind the moving image.
Through meaningful encounters with working professionals, we hope to inspire the next generation of storytellers while making high-quality cultural and educational experiences accessible to young people across the Northern Rivers.
Filmmaker-led screenings
In 2026, we added a program of filmmaker-led screenings for schools. These special screenings are introduced by the filmmakers behind the films and followed by extensive Q&As.The films selected for this offering aim to inform, inspire and raise questions in young minds.
The film chosen in 2026 was The Plastic Country. The sold-out school screening was introduced by the film's director, Kal Glanznig.
The Bangalow Film Festival's school programs are supported and presented in close collaboration with the NSW Department of Education.
