A SCHOOL in Stevenage was turned into a film set over Easter. With their clapperboards ready, youngsters from across the area took part in a specially designed film school at John Henry Newman, which gave them the rare opportunity to learn about screen ac

A SCHOOL in Stevenage was turned into a film set over Easter.

With their clapperboards ready, youngsters from across the area took part in a specially designed film school at John Henry Newman, which gave them the rare opportunity to learn about screen acting and film making.

Warren Bacchi ran the course, organised by the Top Hat Stage School, and said: "We had 21 students aged nine to 16, and some are aspiring actors, some budding directors.

"We have been giving the students the opportunity to not only act in a short film, but also the chance to learn about film-making itself."

The wannabe actors and directors had been working on a short film written by Warren called Top Hat High.

They had to learn their lines, prepare their scenes and then perform in front of a professional camera crew.

The stars of the screen then took their finished masterpiece home on DVD.

Warren has another film school planned for August and places are still available. Call him on 01727 812 666 or visit www.tophatstageschool.co.uk