In Boys Model, two classes worked together to create a film dealing with a young boy's struggles of coming out as gay in an all boys school. Through his fears he finds the support and friendship in school to help him through his difficult time. The students created a hashtag to reach out to other suffering with mental health #itsoktotalk as they wanted to highlight there is help that is available if needed in school.

Created as part of Shortcut, a European Film Programme centred on film and citizenship education. The aim was to increase young viewers’ knowledge of issues through European short films from different, sometimes distant countries and strengthen teachers’ skills in film education. The project was developed by four European organisations from Poland, Northern Ireland, Czech Republic and Portugal with the support of the European Union Creative Europe Media Programme.

The films explored themes affecting young people today, including equality, racism, migration, poverty, addiction, social media, grief, the environment, sexuality and activism. Alongside screenings and discussions, the programme delivered filmmaking residencies in schools and communities, enabling young people to engage creatively with these topics and produce thoughtful short films reflecting the issues that matter in their own lives.

A film by Year 10, Boys Model School, Belfast.

Funded by Creative Europe Media Programme.
Delivered/owned by Nerve Centre.

• Nerve Centre