If you would like a full copy of the Mind Cleaners it is available from WEA, Sheffield Learning Centre, by calling 0114 242 3609 and asking for David Pittaway
The MInd Cleaners
Video Film Product at WEA Sheffield Learning Centre - June 2009
The Mind Cleaners is a science fiction comedy adventure with a running time of 18 minutes. It was written filmed and edited by learners on the first OCN Level 3, Video & Film Production course based at the WEA Sheffield Learning Centre.
All of the learners who attended had previously completed WEA level 2 courses in Digital Media Production. There was a broad representation of ages 24-60 with a diverse ethnic mixture including people from white European, Afro-Caribbean and Middle Eastern backgrounds. The Level 3 course has been in part a pilot scheme to monitor the outcomes of building continuity and progression routes within WEA digital media provision working with vulnerable learners struggling with chaotic lifestyles; and partnership organizations in FE and HE.
WEA learners developed additional skills in film make-up design and application; they studied and applied Health and Safety regulations appointing a H&S Officer to oversee the production.
Perhaps the most poignant achievement was when the group agreed that this was the first time that they had been respected as individual learners each with different skills and ideas. They were impressed that the WEA actually listened to what they had to say and helped them achieve a professional end product.
Introduction to Higher Learning
On the 9th of July 2009, I accompanied a group of WEA learners studying Video and Film Production at OCN Level 3 on a visit to the University of Sheffield and Hallam University. Our host was Margaret Mitchell the Widening Participation officer in the South Yorkshire Community Learning Brokerage Project based at the Institute for Lifelong Learning (TILL), University of Sheffield.
A core purpose of the visit was to reflect and share on individual learning journeys; the personal circumstances and life decisions which made compulsory education problematic for this group of learners and have helped shape learners post 16 educational attitudes, needs, achievements and ambitions. The learners have reported that the Level 3 course has increased their self-esteem and has valued their ideas and contributions after many years of hardship and self-doubt. Paul Taylor (51) left school 35 years ago. “It was strange at first going into educational establishments again” Paul revealed, “but the people who showed us around were very friendly, informative and prepared to answer all our questions.” After being made redundant from the cutlery industry, Paul has been unemployed for several years. He recognized WEA provision as a means to win back his self-confidence and take stock of his options.
Freda Chapple a senior tutor at University of Sheffield facilitated a discussion on the support available in the higher education and career options in the creative industries. This was followed by visits to the recording studios at SOUNDBOX at the University of Sheffield and tour of new digital media facilities in the Furnival Buildings at Hallam University. “The equipment at both the Universities was outstanding and like an alien world to me” writes George Eaton (60), “I did feel I have missed out all these years, but now feel as though I have a second chance, even at my age.” Learners were reassured that it is never too late to work towards a degree and heard stories of recent University graduates aged in their eighties. “It was a very good visit and I think I gained a lot of experience” writes Adil Adi (34). “Now I know they (the Universities) offer a lot for people, for everybody to develop their own skills for a brighter future.” For Kate Smith (24) “The visit was excellent. It really opened my eyes to what courses are available to people like me with learning disabilities and the help you can get like financial help.” “I feel as though I have been waiting my whole life for this chance to do something with my life. Visiting Sheffield and Hallam Universities has opened my eyes to the opportunities available to me” writes Michael Walker (24). I didn’t do well at school, but now I want to take my education further and get a satisfying career.”
“This visit has inspired me to look at other course” writes Tracey Lee (38) “I have applied for a place on a BSc (Hons) in IT and Organisations, I’m really looking forward to it.” “I have signed up for a foundation course in combined skills with a view to go into a BSc (Hons) course.” reported Michael Lee (39). Kate Smith has expressed an interest in studying Art and Design. George Eaton is investigating a creative writing course, Adil Adi wants to enroll on a Film Production course at Norton College and Michael Walker wants to develop his skills to work in Computer Game Design.
Everyone who took part in the visit asked me to extend their thanks to Jol Miskin, Margaret, Freda, David, Jayne Evans and all the other members of staff who made the occasion so productive and enjoyable.
Russell Wall,WEA Digital Media Tutor.
Learner Comments
Katie Smith
“I have greater confidence as a result of the course. I have received good practical and theoretical training in using the video equipment and working as part of a team of filmmakers. In the near future I want to go onto University and get a job in the creative industries.”
Adil Ali
“The course helped increase my knowledge of photography and camera work. It has pushed me into learning more and going on to further education to study cinematography (camera operation and film lighting).”
Paul Taylor
“This course has helped me to regain my confidence mixing with people, and working as part of a team. I do not feel quite so useless after redundancy.”
Tracey Lee
“I learned a lot of new skills and gained a lot of confidence. The course has helped me to go on to do more courses and sign up for a University Course BSc (HONS) in IT and Organisations.”
Michael Lee
“This course has given me greater confidence and a sense of achievement. This is the second course I have finished in 20 years.”
Michael completed the Level 2 course in Digital Media Production earlier in the year. He had a history of unfinished courses due to lack of confidence.
George Eaton
“It has increased my confidence and given me real insights into film making and the many aspects of the work involved. I found out I had ideas that can be used.”
George contributed strongly to the screenplay. It was based on a real incident when he was selling vacuum cleaners. George was made redundant as a plumber after a life-time in the construction industry. He has since developed several other ideas for short stories and screenplays.
Michael Walker
“My confidence has increased enormously. I now know how to write, direct and edit video. Visiting Sheffield University has opened up new opportunities for me. I want to go further with my education. I would like to study Art, ICT, editing, drama and computer game design.”
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