A TEAM of 10 sixth-formers at Notting Hill & Ealing High School organised a three-day film festival dedicated to championing women in film.

Students heard from inspirational females within the industry and were able to take the lead by making their own films.

Their initiative, called #SETtheExample, follows reports decrying the low levels of female representation at this year’s film awards, particularly the lack of female directors shortlisted for an Oscar.

Mel Giedroyc, who chaired their Women in Film Panel Event, said: “It’s truly inspiring to see these girls rallying for change in the entertainment industry. They are its future and their voices must be heard.” 

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Jess Low, spokeswoman for the sixth-form, team said: “We want to encourage the film industry and all those interested in film to continue to create fantastic movies that represent us (51% of all moviegoers are female).”

Ealing companies Delamar and MetFilm supported the festival by holding workshops and a film-making competition.

The festival culminated in a Women In Film panel discussion chaired by Mel Giedroyc with casting director Lucy Bevan, actress Freya Allan, film director Coky Giedroyc, producer Savyna Darby and the managing director of Pathé Films, Jenny Borgars.

Matthew Shoults, headmaster of Notting Hill & Ealing, said: “Our girls are taking the lead in an extremely important initiative. #SETtheExample is about raising awareness of a critical issue facing the film industry.”