York Independent School Students Dive into Film Production with NM Productions
Students at York Independent School, Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate (QE), recently experienced an extraordinary opportunity to engage with industry experts from NM Productions, a leading global production company known for creating some of the most iconic advertisements of recent years.
Led by Executive Producer and QE alumna Anissa Payne, NM Productions hosted a series of immersive workshops, bringing real-world insights to aspiring creatives from Years 6 to 13.
World-Class Creative Workshops at York Independent School
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The full-day event allowed QE students to gain hands-on experience with professionals across various facets of the film production industry. Sessions featured celebrated industry names, including Production Designer Charles Whiteway, Director of Photography Michael O’Connor, Directors Mark Cant and Michael J Ferns, SFX Body Artist Samantha Helen, and founder of Permian World, Gani Malaba—both also former Queen Ethelburga's students. The sessions included guidance from WPP’s SVP of Creative AI, Perry Nightingale, and VP of Interactive Design, Kat Sullivan, who shared insights into AI’s transformative role in the creative industry. |
A 360-Degree Perspective on Creative Careers
Highlighting the future of technology and design, students witnessed a live demonstration of Boston Dynamics’ robotic dog in QE’s King’s Theatre, creating a memorable experience for everyone, from students to staff and parents. The event provided students with a comprehensive view of the range of careers in the creative sector, from cinematography to AI-driven design, helping them envision future possibilities and understand the skills essential in this dynamic field.
Shaping Future Careers at Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate
Kevin Oldershaw, Academic Director at Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate, expressed gratitude to NM Productions, saying,
“These workshops align perfectly with our goals at Queen Ethelburga's. They provide students at our York Independent School the opportunity to learn from leading industry experts, explore potential careers, and develop essential skills for their future.”
Anissa Payne, Founder and Executive Producer at NM Productions, shared her excitement, adding,
“As our company grows, it’s incredibly rewarding to contribute to the next generation. This workshop is one of many charitable initiatives we’re excited to support this year.”
Supporting Socioeconomic Diversity Through the Creative Mentor Network
Alongside the workshops, merchandise sales raised funds for the Creative Mentor Network, a charity focused on helping young people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds access creative careers. Further donations are welcome to support this initiative.
To contribute to NM Productions' support of socioeconomic diversity, please consider donating here: JustGiving Crowdfunding for NM Productions.
This enriching day underscored Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate's dedication to fostering skills and experiences that equip students for successful futures in creative industries.
Watch the Highlights of the Day
