Screen and Film School Birmingham College Principal appointed
Screen and Film School are thrilled to announce the appointment of our Birmingham College Principal: Hannah Stevenson.
Hannah Stevenson is a producer with an abundance of industry experience spanning over 20 years. Hannah started her career working at Granada TV working in live television before filming, producing, and directing her own pre-recorded lifestyle programmes. Hannah recently produced feature film ‘Eaten by Lions’, released theatrically in cinemas nationwide, winning ‘Best Film’ at London Indian Film Festival and ‘Best Comedy Feature’ at Prague Film Awards.
She is the recipient of the Best Producer award at Sochi Film Festival for ‘In Another Life’, more recently producing ‘Pavement’, part of the ground-breaking ‘The Uncertain Kingdom’ anthology of twenty short films, which offer a unique portrait of the UK today.
Regularly working alongside director Jason Wingard, Hannah also produced the short film Lollipop with director Scott Mann. Over lockdown she was part of the team behind the hit comedy radio show, ‘Where to, Mate?’ and she is currently completing a BFI commissioned short film called Baba, due for release in 2021.
We are delighted to welcome Hannah to Screen and Film School Birmingham, particularly as we look forward to this new college opening in September 2021 in such an iconic, film-centric city.
“I was impressed with the Screen and Film School because they really focus on moving students into work after they finish their course,” said Hannah. “The links with industry will help better prepare them for the world of work and the practical nature of the courses means students will have hands-on experience and showreels to exhibit to potential employers. I want to attract young people who are serious about a career in the industry. My own career has spanned TV, documentary, commercials and now feature films so I can give insight and guidance on several career paths. I want to give students the confidence to create work that will propel them towards their career goals as well as beginning a legacy of work they can be proud of.”
“We’re delighted to have Hannah join the Screen and Film School team,” said Dara Kilkenny Executive Principal of Screen and Film School. “Hannah has amazing experience in high-level filmmaking over a number of years and we look forward to her imparting her knowledge first-hand to our first group of talented filmmakers in September 2021.”
We caught up with Hannah this week to talk about this exciting new appointment:
Congratulations on your new role! How did your relationship with Screen and Film School originally start?
I have been connected with Screen and Film School for around 18 months I think – time flies! I was part of an industry panel advising the college on how best to prepare students to enter the industry. It was really encouraging to have course leaders listen to us and register what a career in the industry could look like for students. I was then approached to give guest lectures about film business, followed by industry partner status. I was mainly planning to work exclusively with Screen and Film School Manchester but when I heard about the opportunity in Birmingham for a College Principal position, I thought this could be something really special, so I applied.
What about Birmingham, do you think the city lends itself to the industry?
There is a huge amount of effort being made to support the creative industries in the regions – the Midlands is no exception. We have our regional film fund which attracts large scale film and TV production to the area. There is a thriving factual entertainment TV business here, continuing drama with Doctors, and a few hi-end TV dramas have been filmed here. There is an independent creative buzz about the place, I feel like Birmingham doesn’t need to shout – it just does – and that appeals to me. It has an understated cool – oh and the rap game- what can I say – great locations!
What advice would you give to our students and graduates taking their first steps into the industry?
The best advice I can give is to be humble and helpful. You will undoubtedly be starting off in a runner position, which is great because you get to witness every department as you connect with them. Everyone loves a cup of tea – so learn to make a good brew. Always have a pad and pen to note down requests as you’ll get distracted and always be thinking of ways to be helpful. When I was a runner I actually ran – I loved it.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learnt in your career?
Don’t worry so much – just go for it. If you believe in something, you can make it work.
What can we expect from you as College Principal of Screen and Film School Birmingham?
I hope students will recognise I’m approachable. I have a great deal of integrity. I have a ‘can-do’ attitude and big ambitions. I’m most looking forward to seeing students flourish in their chosen discipline. I feel very lucky to be here.
Welcome to Screen and Film School Hannah!
Become a part of a new legacy and movement in Birmingham.
Find out more about our Birmingham Campus and kickstart your career in film today by joining us on Thursday 7th January for our virtual open evening. Book your space now.
