Lights, camera, action
Clarion
3rd April 2025
As part of our 125 anniversary, Clarion Futures collaborated with Iconic Steps, a not-for-profit film production company who provided hands-on experience in essential media industry skills, including camera operation, editing, and production.
The project offered our residents an opportunity to participate in two film schools in Penge and Leeds. They gained practical training in filmmaking, built confidence, and received mentorship to support their career goals. Throughout the training, participants gained valuable skills and connected with an alumni network that provided them with ongoing support and future film project opportunities.
Bringing career opportunities to local residents
Over the course of the programme, participants didn’t just learn technical skills - they explored storytelling, confidence-building, and workplace skills like resilience and CV development. The journey started with brainstorming ideas for documentaries, understanding social media strategies, and diving deep into the world of film.
From handling cameras and recording sound to editing and organising footage, everyone got a taste of what it takes to produce a film from start to finish. The support doesn’t end there, participants now have 12 months of continued guidance from Iconic Steps, plus employability coaching from Clarion Futures to help them take the next step.
Councillor for Penge and Cator and Leader of Bromley Labour Group, Cllr Simon Jeal, dropped in to meet with Penge participants and enjoy a screening of the films they produced, as well as finding out more about the jobs and training support on offer through Clarion Futures.
“It’s clear how much hard work went into the short films I had the pleasure of watching, both of which told powerful stories relating to the meaning and importance of home and community. I hope that this is just the beginning for all those who took part and that they carry on making films together, and pursuing careers in filmmaking or whatever this course has inspired them to do, with the ongoing support of Clarion Futures.”
Cllr Simon Jeal
“I just graduated from a Digital Marketing Masters, where I learnt the theory behind what makes successful content. I'm quite practical learner, so this course is a chance to get some hands-on experience in making films. My passion is music, I’d like to make content and work in the music industry.”
Rebecca McDonough, Clarion resident - Penge
“I’ve been receiving support from Clarion Futures for the last few years and it’s been instrumental in helping to grow my label-making business called The Label Maker thanks to mentoring, grant funding and being given a laptop. When I heard about the film school I jumped at the chance to take part as I could see how it could help me promote my business – I really enjoyed it and have learned lots, as well as having fun.”
Cam Norford, Clarion resident – Leeds
“For anyone interested in igniting their inner filmmaker, becoming the next big social media influencer or just wanting to understand a bit more about how it all works, this free hands-on course has provided a fantastic opportunity for local people and I’m excited to see what happens next.”
Victoria Whittle, Head of Jobs and Training, Clarion Futures