The film, shot last week at Forster Primary School with the assistance of the Forster Film Festival, follows a small group of indigenous children as they embark upon a morning from home, to pre-school and then on to ‘big’ school. 

While at school, the children explore then facilities, meet new and old friends and family, and experience the support and fun that awaits them when they start attending next year.

“It’s about enhancing a sense of well-being and belonging through that transition,” GLCC Director Tash Chandler explained.

“For some kids the move is really exciting, but others can get quite anxious and fearful, particularly for our indigenous kids. By involving them in this film we can illustrate the support networks that exist in the school, brothers, sisters, teachers so it’s less daunting. We’re also focusing on the fun parts, the play equipment the games on the smart board.”

 “Film is a visual medium which is more engaging for kids so putting the information in a film helps the kids absorb it. Plus the kids get a real thrill out of seeing themselves on film.”

Forster Film Festival’s Greg Smith agreed that the film medium was very effective for carrying the message.

“It is visual and through the work we’ve done on other projects in other school’s we’re learning just how effective it is in engaging and educating kids.”

The film will be part of the centre’s end of year transition packs for the children and their families.