'Dyslexia and Me' wins Best Film - 11 and Under

Congratulations to children from St. Luke's Church of England Primary School in Rugby, England, whose film Dyslexia and Me has won Best Film - 11 and Under (sponsored by Amazon MGM Studios) at the 2024 Into Film Awards. The award was presented by David Morrissey and Thomasin McKenzie.

A hugely creative film, Dyslexia and Me melds animation, documentary and drama, and uses an array of dazzling techniques to explore the topic of dyslexia, and the difficulties it can pose to young learners.

In all, around 45 children worked on the film, and the staff at St. Luke's Church of England Primary School were keen to give the young people as much creative control as they could. "Once the basic concept, structure and scenes of the film had been decided, the children, as much as possible, were given options as to which characters and scenes they would like to work on and develop", explained teacher Dale Forder upon submitting their entry. "For example, in the end sequence when the character of Lily volunteers to read, the group discussed and voted as to whether the character should do so confidently or nervously. This was to help ensure that the students had as much creative input as possible into the shaping of the film."

Mr Forder explained that the group was inspired to create a film relevant to school life; in particular one that would impact SEND needs and mental wellbeing concerns among young children. "The children thoroughly explored the topic of dyslexia", said Mr Forder, "and learned significant amounts of information about the condition and how to manage it."

"For many of the techniques seen within the film we would routinely spend a session fully learning the skill, as well as the intended impact and reason for using the technique before actually filming the scene. This was to ensure that children fully understood how and why the technique would be used within the film, deepening their ability to grasp and develop the scene being filmed."

Upon learning of their nomination back in May, Dale Forder spoke further about the impact of filmmaking on the school and its young learners. "Filmmaking has become so important to the work students do at our school for lots of different reasons. Firstly, it allows the children to fully realise their ideas and visions for projects, which is great for educational benefits in their lessons.

Secondly, in an age of increasingly technical computer knowledge, application and possibilities, it allows them to learn an incredible array of transferable skills for when they get older.

Thirdly, the filmmaking community is so vibrant and exciting. The list of festivals and opportunities - whether in a local, national or international context - are immense. We can connect, discuss and share our ideas with the world, so aspiration and cultural capital benefits are also limitless.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, it is fun! The children can create lasting memories and permanent projects that they will be able to rewatch and share for the rest of their lives. It allows both the children and families a lasting document of their activities and experiences that can be cherished."

We couldn't have put it better ourselves!