Aspiring Tameside filmmaker gains place at prestigious school

A Media Production student at Ashton Sixth Form College has successfully gained a place at the London Film Academy.

Nathan Nuttall studies a full-time vocational course in Media Production at the Darnton Road college.

After submitting his application to the academy, Nathan was invited to take part in a Skype interview.

"Although nerve-racking, the interview was really friendly and relaxed and we discussed my aspirations, the qualities I would bring to the uni, and overall just films," Nathan said. 

He was offered a place and will start his degree in Filmmaking later in the year.

The London Film Academy, based in Fulham in west London, is dedicated to producing filmmakers of the future. 

Throughout his time at the college, Nathan has developed his skills and honed his passion for film.

Last year, his class took part in a placement with Vitafoam where they were tasked with producing a Health and Safety video.

Nathan not only gained an understanding of filming on location and the complexities that working on a site can involve, but he also had to work as part of a team while following a brief. His particular edit of the video was chosen by the team to be submitted and his video won the entire competition among international entries too. 

Studying a level 3 vocational course has allowed Nathan to work in new environments and develop his practical skills, something other courses may not have provided him with. 

He said: "I’d say I benefited from a vocational course rather than A levels... it gave me the experience, knowledge, and most importantly evidence of projects that stand out on an application.

"If you’re looking to go into a unique industry like film and have enough commitment, then vocationals are great for preparing you with all the skills you need."

By choosing to study at the London Film Academy, he will continue this hand on learning approach in a school that boasts alumni who have recently worked on 'Chernobyl', 'Game of Thrones', 'Green Book', and 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi'. Nathan has huge plans for the future and his determination and skill have already set him apart.

Nathan added: "My ultimate goal is to become a film director. Obviously, this is a long way down the line so in the meantime, I just want to break into the industry and build up my film portfolio."