Local primary schools on the big screen in film premiere

The children watch their film

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Twelve primary schools from across the across the borough saw their film, ‘We Are One’, premiered at Rochdale Odeon.

Over 200 people packed in to the Odeon cinema at Sandbrook Park to see local children make their big screen debut.

The short film, ‘We Are One’, stars 24 local pupils and was created with the aim of exploring equality, regardless of faith or ethnicity. The cinema buzzed with excitement as the stars and their classmates saw the film and their names roll up in the credits.

Councillor Kieran Heakin, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “This film sends such a strong message, our young people are so inspiring and they should be really proud of their achievements.”

The award winning local creative director Parvez Qadir and Nick Farrimond from Breaking Barriers developed the film with the children through a range of lessons exploring unity, good morals and celebrating diversity.

Kim Farrall, headteacher at St Luke’s Primary School, Heywood, was delighted with the event and said: “It was quite emotional seeing a packed cinema and the film played out. The young people have worked so hard and to see their beaming faces today was delightful. They have created a special film that I hope resonates with a lot of people, it reflects Rochdale well.”

The children involved enjoyed the experience of working together, acting and being part of the film development process.

Gail Hopper, director of children’s services, said: “This is such a powerful film I was so impressed with how the 12 schools and children came together to create a product that can be widely shared across and beyond the Rochdale borough. The enthusiasm in the cinema was infectious and the children clearly had fun whilst working on a serious issue that is important to all communities.”

Resource packs with lessons plans will accompany the short film for use in schools to celebrate diversity.