Edu Focus: International Film School Of Sydney

What can we expect to learn from this course? Students can choose to focus their studies in one of two areas of filmmaking: screenwriting, directing and producing (SC&D) or cinematography. The Advanced Diploma is delivered over two years on a full-time basis. The Advanced Diploma of Screen & Media is offered to filmmakers who want to develop the skills to find a unique voice and build a flourishing career in the global film market. SC&D is designed to build skills and knowledge in the areas of screenwriting, directing and producing with complementary skills in camera, lighting, editing and post-production, sound recording and sound design. There is a strong emphasis on industry knowledge and employability skills, collaboration, team building and professionalism. Cinematography is designed to teach students how to use the camera to create emotion and continuity of visual mood; how to advance a story, how to build and maintain rhythm, how to enhance the trace of the eye and how to bring the three-dimensional world and space of action to the screen.

Is there a practical component to the course? Students at the International Film School Sydney (IFSS) will learn by doing. Every course at IFSS is highly practical with students creating five to seven of their own short films over the two years and working as a crew member on the films of their peers (for both areas). This provides them with an extensive portfolio of films that they can take to prospective employers. As part of the course, students also have regular one-on-one consultations with IFSS teachers that all work in the film industry. They assist the students in developing their scripts, preparation for production, editing and much more.

What kinds of jobs have previous graduates of this course gone on to do? The course prepares students for careers as a producer, screenwriter, director, cinematographer, camera operator and director of photography as well as careers in the technical departments of camera, sound and post production. IFSS graduates have gone on to pursue a range of careers. Adrian Powers is working full time as a director/editor at Scarlet Fire Films at Fox Studios in Sydney. He has also enjoyed immense success in the film-festival circuit with his film Scruples that he produced in his final year at IFSS, making it to the top ten finalists in Ridley Scott's Your Film Festival this year. Jackson Mullane is working full time as a content director at TCO (the.conscience.organisation) and has also started his own production company with other IFSS graduates. Kim Ramsay has also created her own production companies whilst freelancing. Some of her jobs have included directing the documentary Kindness Revolution and the TV series IFSS Uncut.

This is part of a special sponsored feature.