Held over two sessions, local aspiring filmmakers have been given the opportunity to take part in free taster sessions by industry experts.

Teaming up with TAPE Community Music and Film based in Old Colwyn, Working Denbighshire set up two free workshop events in Rhyl Library, giving local aspiring filmmakers the opportunity to use professional grade filming and editing equipment.

Working Denbighshire participants, local businesses and services volunteered to be on camera to share their positive and personal experience of using the employability and skills service provided by Working Denbighshire, whilst new participants worked together to capture their story.

Led by Niall Jones from TAPE, both sessions went into detail about the basics of filmmaking, sharing key techniques and skills over a one-and-a-half-hour session.

Niall Jones, filmmaker at TAPE Community Music and Film, said:

"Sharing creative skills and passions in a way that involves everyone is at the heart of TAPE's ethos. Our thanks to Working Denbighshire for allowing us to connect further with Denbighshire residents, and our thanks to those who came along to the sessions to make it such an enjoyable experience!"

Melanie Evans, Principal Manager and Strategic Lead for Working Denbighshire said:

“Events like these really highlight the importance of this service and the wide array of employment and skills support that is available to our young people in the county.

We are grateful to have been able to collaborate with TAPE to provide these free sessions. This kind of professional development provides residents with experience using high quality equipment, which will add value to their CV.”

Councillor Jason McLellan, Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Economic Growth & Tackling Deprivation said:

“The knowledge gained from these sessions will give local aspiring filmmakers a greater understanding of the field they aspire to work in.

Working with professionals allows for great growth and understanding, and is a great way to build up a CV.”

After the recent A Level and GCSE results, Working Denbighshire is shining a light on a recent young person they supported into work after leaving education.

Alex, who has a passion for Engineering, expanded on it further through a Work Start scheme.

The Work Start Scheme is designed to provide people with invaluable work placement opportunities in a sector they are passionate in, and proved to be a turning point for Alex.

After gaining his Level 2 qualification in Engineering, he sought after expert guidance from a Placement Officer, who helped Alex secure a 12-week placement in mechanics after demonstrating exceptional skills and dedication throughout his interview process. This has the possibility to be a permanent role once he completes the placement.

Previous Working Denbighshire participant, Alex said:

“I was unsure where to turn for career support after leaving education, but as soon as I heard about Working Denbighshire, I contacted them.

The Work Start Scheme gave me the opportunity to gain knowledge and skills to get into the job I wanted, and this experience will continue with me whilst I further progress in my career.

I would recommend Working Denbighshire to anyone who like me, left school or education without the relevant experience and skills for your chosen career. They helped me a lot.”

Ross from Redstone Services, Ruthin said:

“Alex has been with us for a few weeks now and has been helping around the workshop, learning the procedures and high level of detail we implement into our work. This is so we can get the vehicle fixed or serviced to the highest of standards.

The Work Start Scheme has helped us with finding the right person for our business. I would recommend Working Denbighshire to any employers that need assistance with finding suitable employees.”

Racheal Sumner-Lewis, Employer & Training Relationships Manager, Working Denbighshire said:

‘’Alex came to us looking for a secure career in mechanics and we are delighted to have been able to support him with that.

By offering customised support and ensuring they are matched to available placement opportunities, we are able to watch participants excel in their chosen career path.

If you are in need of employment type support, please contact Working Denbighshire to see how we can help you.’’

Councillor Jason McLellan, Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Economic Growth & Tackling Deprivation said:

“Figuring out the next step after finishing schooling can be confusing for some.

Working Denbighshire are there to ensure that school leavers get the help they need when they are taking the next step in their journey.”

The Work Start scheme provides work placement opportunities for Denbighshire residents aged 16 and over, to gain experience in a chosen job.

If you are interested in applying to one of our Work Start placements, please email workstart@denbighshire.gov.uk

Working Denbighshire is part funded through the Welsh Government Communities for Work Plus Programme which supports those most disadvantaged in the labour market to overcome the barriers preventing them from gaining employment.

Working Denbighshire is part funded by UK Government.