An 8 week practical course, either for those completely new to filmmaking or with a little experience from a related background (journalism/vlogging), to learn how to create meaningful stories with the accessible resources, taught in a combination of in-person and online sessions.

Course Description

WHAT: An 8 week practical course, either for those completely new to filmmaking or with a little experience from a related background (journalism/vlogging), to learn how to create meaningful stories with the accessible resources, taught in a combination of in-person and online sessions.

WHERE: Some sessions in-person at UCL East, and part online.

ADDRESS: UCL East, Marshgate Building, 7 Sidings St, London E20 2AE.

COURSE LEADER: Run by UCL mentor and professional filmmaker; Ashton John.

WHEN: Wednesday Evenings, 25th February to 13th April 2026 from 6 - 8 PM.

COMMITMENT: 2 hours contact time per week, with 4-6 hours flexible learning.

WHAT YOU GET: contact time with a professional filmmaker and educator, a safe environment to explore ideas, connections with a small group of aspiring filmmakers.

HOW MUCH: £325 | Concessions: £275.00 | UCL Students: £255.00

DEADLINE TO SIGN UP: TBD.

BURSARIES: Please read our bursaries policy.

AGES: 18+

 

Course Overview:

This 8-week intensive course is open to those from varying backgrounds (completely new or with some experience) to come together and feel a sense of community telling stories about a place, space or group that connects to a sense of home. Using technology and software already available, (such as your smart phone, or a camera you may already have) you will learn how to create compelling documentary stories, that you can continue to work on after the course.

What you will gain:

• Insight int how to think of new ideas and capture meaningful stories
• Transferable skills to the technologies freely available (phones, social media etc)
• A practical grounding in entry level videography and editing
• An understanding of ways to distribute your films; skills that can be applied across multiple platforms including social media, vlogging and content creation
• Final screening and feedback with your peers
• Build a community of filmmakers who you can work with

 

Course Breakdown:

Week 1 – [In Person] Wednesday 25th Feb

Introduction & Story Foundations

Meet your course leaders and fellow participants. Bring your ideas and your filming kit (smartphone or DSLR). We’ll explore what makes a compelling story, discuss themes of home and community, and help you shape your initial idea into a synopsis. You’ll leave with your first piece of “narrative homework” to begin developing your documentary.

 

Week 2 – [Online] Wednesday 4th March

Research & Finding Your Story

Deepen your story idea with research and planning. Learn how to approach contributors, build trust with your subjects, and develop your narrative further. We’ll also explore ethical considerations when working with real people and real stories.

 

Week 3 – [In Person] Wednesday 11th March

Filming Techniques & Interviewing

A hands-on practical session where you’ll learn to work with your own kit. We’ll cover framing, camera settings, lighting, sound, and interviewing techniques. There’ll be time to practice shooting and conducting interviews, with feedback throughout the session.

 

Week 4 – [Online] Wednesday 18th March

Independent Filming Week

This is your chance to begin filming your project. You’ll be capturing footage independently in your own time, with check-in support available via email or video call. Use what you’ve learned to start building your story through real-world filming.

 

Week 5 – [In Person] Wednesday 25th March

Intro to Editing in DaVinci Resolve

Bring your laptop and your footage — this session introduces you to DaVinci Resolve (free editing software). You’ll learn how to organise your material, sync sound, and begin cutting your first scenes. No prior editing experience required.

 

Week 6 – [Online] Tuesday 31st March

Shaping the Edit

Now that you’ve begun editing, we’ll work on shaping your story arc. Learn how to sequence scenes, add b-roll, and create narrative flow. You’ll receive peer and tutor feedback on your rough cut and advice on how to move toward your final version.

 

Week 7 – [In Person, Drop-In] Thursday 9th April

Open Edit & 1:1 Feedback

An open studio session for continued editing. Get personalised feedback on your film, troubleshoot technical issues, and refine your project with support from tutors. You can drop in anytime during the session hours.

 

Week 8 – [In Person] Monday 13th April

Final Screening & Celebration

Present your finished short documentary to the group in a supportive screening session at UCL East in Stratford. Receive final feedback and celebrate the completion of your project — and your creative journey over the past eight weeks.