Workshops .
Learn something new at Aesthetica Film Festival 2026
Kids' Workshops .
Inspiring the Next Generation
Please note, Kids’ Workshops are separate ticketed events running alongside the festival. They are not included with a festival pass. However, you do not need a festival pass for your child to attend the workshops. All Kids’ Workshops will take place at York St John University Creative Centre.
Workshops for Kids Aged 7-10 Years:
Want to Be A Filmmaker?
Discover the magic of cinema behind the scenes in our hands-on workshop for kids. Through engaging activities and practical experience, budding directors will begin developing a comprehensive understanding of how the filmmaking process works. Those taking part will learn the fundamentals of camera operation, sound design and direction. By the end of the workshop, each child will have the exciting opportunity to plan, direct and shoot a short film, gaining practical experience of what it’s like behind the camera.
7 November | 10:00 – 12:00 (7-10yrs)
8 November | 14:00 – 16:00 (7-10yrs)
YSJU Creative Centre
How to Make a Game
Join ComputerXplorers instructors who are passionate about gaming and nurturing young talent in a workshop that will introduce children to coding software. Participants will be guided through the whole process, given support and reassurance throughout the session. This is the perfect place to start with coding, enabling children to create digital stories, games and animations, encouraging creativity and problem-solving. Those involved will boost skills and make friends – unlocking endless possibilities for the future.
7 November | 10:00-12:00 (7-10yrs)
8 November | 14:00 – 16:00 (7-10yrs)
YSJU Creative Centre
Stop-Motion Animation
Dive into the enchanting world of stop-motion animation in our engaging workshop for kids aged 7-10. Working in pairs or small groups, depending on whether they attend alone or with friends, children will learn the essentials of stop-motion animation production. Each group will work together to brainstorm ideas, create their own models, characters, and props using modelling clay, before bringing their creations to life with the incredible magic of stop-motion in a short video that will capture their creativity and inspiration.
7 November | 14.00-16.00 (7-10yrs)
8 November | 10:00 – 12:00 (7-10yrs)
YSJU Creative Centre
Screen Acting for Kids
In this practical workshop, participants devise and create an original super short film in a single shot from scratch, combining scripting, acting, choreography and filming. Young storytellers explore story development and performance on camera, brainstorming imaginative plots and crafting compelling characters while working collaboratively in groups. They learn what it takes to bring an idea to life on screen through planning and teamwork. A fun experience for aspiring filmmakers and screen actors alike.
7 November | 14:00 – 16:00 (7-10yrs)
8 November | 10:00-12:00 (7-10yrs)
YSJU Creative Centre
Workshops for Kids Aged 11-14 Years:
Want to Be A Filmmaker?
Discover the magic of cinema behind the scenes in our hands-on workshop for kids. Through engaging activities and practical experience, budding directors will begin developing a comprehensive understanding of how the filmmaking process works. Those taking part will learn the fundamentals of camera operation, sound design and direction. By the end of the workshop, each child will have the exciting opportunity to plan, direct and shoot a short film, gaining practical experience of what it’s like behind the camera.
7 November | 14:00 – 16:00 (11-14yrs)
8 November | 10:00 – 12:00 (11-14yrs)
YSJU Creative Centre
Want to Be a Developer?
In this workshop, led by ComputerXplorers, you’ll begin your journey to become a game developer by learning the basics of game design. Discover the fundamentals of character development, level creation and storytelling. You will also learn about programming and get hands-on experience creating your own games. Unleash your imagination and bring your designs to life. Get ready to dive into the world of game development and see how code transforms into interactive experiences.
7 November | 14:00-16:00 (11-14yrs)
8 November | 10:00 – 12:00 (11-14yrs)
YSJU Creative Centre
Bring Characters To Life
Learn how to make your own characters, whether that be people or animals, come to life with the magic of claymation. Throughout the workshop, participants will gain hands-on experience in crafting and animating short films, and by the end of the session they will have produced their very own captivating animation around 10-15 seconds in length. This workshop is perfect for fostering creativity, teamwork, and technical skills in children, whilst offering a fun and educational experience that will spark a lifelong love of animation.
7 November | 10.00-12.00 (11-14yrs)
8 November | 14.00-16.00 (11-14yrs)
YSJU Creative Centre
Screen Acting for Kids
In this practical workshop, participants devise and create an original super short film in a single shot from scratch, combining scripting, acting, choreography and filming. Young storytellers explore story development and performance on camera, brainstorming imaginative plots and crafting compelling characters while working collaboratively in groups. They learn what it takes to bring an idea to life on screen through planning and teamwork. A fun experience for aspiring filmmakers and screen actors alike.
7 November | 10:00 – 12:00 (11-14yrs)
8 November | 14:00-16:00 (11-14yrs)
YSJU Creative Centre
