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2014 GUIDELINES &APPLICATION FORM

Leads to a Nationally Recognised CUF30107 Certificate III in Media qualification, for students enrolling on an accredited basis. This course is delivered with Commonwealth and Victorian Government funding for eligible applicants. People with disablities encouraged to apply. Open Channel is a Registered Training Organisation Reg. No 3999

www.openchannel.org.au

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For more than 40 years, Open Channel’s Certificate level filmmaking program has connected filmmakers to professional screen production. You’re likely to find our past graduates creating their own award-winning screen content, working in the professional film, television and digital media production industries as creatives or film crew. It’s the individual attention and time we give each and every student that helps our graduates to succeed in whichever path they choose to take after the course. From 2014, the course is being relaunched as SCRIPT 2 SCREEN, offering students the option of participating on an accredited (leading to a qualification) or non-accredited basis. The course offers ten specialist training programs taught by leading industry professionals, which run alongside the experience of making your own short drama or documentary film or web video. Uniquely, you’ll also be making your next film with us for a specific audience, such as festivals, web viewers or broadcasters.

About Open ChannelOpen Channel is Victoria’s leading independent screen learning and development centre, working to ensure a highly skilled screen industry. We champion original storytelling, creativity and diversity. Open Channel’s launch of the Victorian Screen Industry Skills Centre at Docklands Studios in 2013 places us in the heart of industry. We are a Registered Training Organisation (ID 3999) and deliver Nationally Recognised Training as well as short courses across a range of screen disciplines. Open Channel’s professional development programs, events and initiatives create a unique space where early career practitioners connect with industry, gain mentoring, and advance their careers and projects. These include funded film and television production initiatives, live pitching competitions, seminars, screenings and industry conferences.

Option to achieve a CUF30107 Certificate III in Media

Your pathway to the professional screen production

Cover image courtesy Mirella McCracken

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“You’ve been great, very supportive and encouraging! Thank you so much! The course has been the best thing I’ve done in years and fingers crossed for what the future holds!” Leiarna Paterno, 2010 SCRIPT 2 SCREEN Graduate, Screenwriter

Britta’s career goal is to work as an Editor on drama and documentary films. Since completing SCRIPT 2 SCREEN at Open Channel, Britta has developed her career as an Assistant Editor, working on a number of shorts and recently gaining an Editor’s Attachment position with Circe Films on a feature length documentary, The Triangle Wars - the story of the battle being waged between local government, big business and the community over the development of a tiny sliver of crown land - the St Kilda Triangle site. Britta’s student film was also screened as part of the Adelaide Short Film Festival. Britta Drevermann, 2008 SCRIPT 2 SCREEN Graduate

Michael Bissell completed a snowboarding documentary film in the course, found a passion for camera, and obtained a camera industry attachment on ABC TV comedy series Problems through Open Channel after graduating. From here, Michael made contacts that led to his next camera department roles on TV shows including Better Man and then his first paying freelancer job on House Husbands. Says Michael, “The course is very hands-on, very practical and you learn a lot through experiencing it first-hand. I think if you have a creative side and really love visual media this is definitely the course!”Michael Bissell, 2012 SCRIPT 2 SCREEN Graduate

DEVELOPING NEW TALENT IN ORIGINAL SCREEN CONTENT CREATION.PROVIDING PATHWAYS TO SCREEN INDUSTRY CAREERS.

Image courtesy Museum Victoria

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The SCRIPT 2 SCREEN program at Open Channel is the ideal place to get your filmmaking journey on track.

Through the course, you’ll get hands-on production experience working on a number of screen productions in a range of roles, plus you’ll get to make your own short documentary, webseries/TV production, or narrative (short drama) under expert supervision.

The course is fast-paced and intense, with a steep learning curve, but a whole lot of fun at the same time and you’ll forge lasting professional relationships. We think it is kind of like doing a few years of film school in just a few months.

The course is designed to help you decide whether you wish to become a “content creator” (writer, producer or director), or work in the industries as part of a production crew. Once you know what you want to do, our goal is to help you get started on the pathway to your new career.

Content creators make screen productions across a range of production methods, genres and viewing platforms (such as film, television, drama, comedy, documentary, corporate, web or mobile video). There are three principal roles in the triangle relationship of content creation - the producer, the director, and the writer.

In the course, you’ll get to tell your own short story for the screen, learning to make better quality films in collaboration with others, and target your production to a specific audience, such as festivals, web audiences, broadcasters (our recent films have screened on ABC, SBS and Channel 31). This is a highly competitive career, but Open Channel graduates with passion, enthusiasm and talent are given a head start by leaving the course with their own folio of produced work, which is very important if you wish to continue further study at film school. If you don’t continue your studies, you’ll still have the skills you need to keep creating your own productions, developing your craft, and building audiences for your work.

So you’re ready to begin your journey....

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Open Channel is also unique as a screen resource organisation, with Government funded initiatives that can give you that next step in your filmmaking career, such as the Raw Nerve production initiative, Short and Sharp Pitching Competition, Generation Next emerging sector conferences, FRAMED industry seminars, networking and mentoring opportunities. We also offer a year-long project development lab, scriptshop, for people with a first draft feature film or television script.

We also encourage our students to think about a career in crewing for the screen industries. If you like the idea of working in screen production, but not necessarily telling your own stories, crewing may be the right pathway for you. There are many crew roles in commercial productions - you only need to look at the credits of a feature film or television show to see just how many people work in the production industry.

Job opportunities abound across many departments: production design, camera, sound, editing, production, TV studio, digital effects, and post-production. The UK website Creative Skillset (www.creativeskillset.org) is a good place to scout through job descriptions of the many different crew roles. If you want to develop a career as a crew member or technician, you will need to develop practical skills that will make you employable; and a network of colleagues and collaborators so that people know who you are and what it is you do.

Passion is also very important. The screen industry is demanding, with irregular work patterns, long working days, and lots of competition for a limited number of paid jobs. Screen production is also highly collaborative, and it is important to be a team player with respect for and an understanding of your fellow crew and content creators.

You can also use SCRIPT 2 SCREEN to gain opportunities to work on a range of productions to build your production credits and networks. Students also have the opportunity for an industry production placement on a professional production, where available during or after the course.

2. CoUrSe oUtlIne What productions have our recent students or graduates worked on?Feature Films

The Pacific

Killer Elite

Surviving Georgia

Hail

Eliminated

10 Terrorists

The Cup

Cut Snake

The Moon and The Sun

Television Series - Drama

Small Time Gangster

House Husbands

Killing Time

Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries

Is This the Real World

Better Man

House Husbands

INXS: Never Tear Us Apart

Fat Tony & Co

Television Series - Comedy

Outland

Lowdown

Problems

It’s a Date

You’re Skitting Me

Format Television

Formal Affairs

Santo Sam & Ed’s Cup Fever

With Tim Ferguson

Dance Academy

4x4 Show, Foxtel

Documentaries

Quest for Jackie Chan

Short films

The Interview (Tropfest finalist)

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ON THE JOURNEY.

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“The incredible thing about this course is that you can come in with very little knowledge or experience, but we basically treat people as professionals, we teach them as if we know they have the capacity to make a ten minute film, and we give them to tools to do it.

The results speak for themselves. The filmmaking accomplishments of students in this program in such a short space of time is extraordinary. Open Channel creates a space for students to create what it is they’ve always wanted to create, to go beyond their expectations of themselves, and to be proud of their achievements.”

Caroline WatersFilmmaker and Course Co-ordinator (since 2008)

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SCRIPT 2 SCREEN is Open Channel’s program for emerging filmmakers or web video creators. We are looking for passionate people who love making films and TV, and have concepts they want to produce.

This course has one main objective: to get you skilled up and on track to working as a screen professional, whether that be as a filmmaker making your own screen (film, TV or web) content, or working in the industry as a member of the film crew.

We offer two streams of study depending on the type of productions you’d like to make or work on.

Our Documentary stream creates individual and personal perspectives on the world, telling stories about real people and events in compelling ways.

Our Drama stream is for those wishing to tell fictional stories, whether for cinema, television, or the web (our students can make individual shorts or a group webseries for the web and for TV). In the words of Kevin Spacey, storytelling is becoming less about the platform: “its all content, its all story” - and the internet is fast growing as the primary space to build audience as a filmmaker.

THE SCRIPT 2 SCREENCOURSE PROGRAM

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Course Program

Tell your story. Learn professional skills.

Alongside ten short courses run out of our Docklands Studios home, students develop and make 10 minute film project ideas with support from Open Channel’s in house producer.

Students also have the opportunity to crew on a range of other student documentary productions, or to get attachments on professional programs at the end of the course.

Courses you will undertake are taught by leading industry professionals and include:

Digital Filmmaking Introduction (Drama elective) OR Documentary Filmmaking Introduction (Documentary elective) With a focus on collboration and creative thinking, this course functions as either a refresher for people with experience, or a foundation for those with less experience. Work in small groups to make a film over an action-packed weekend, refining the professional production process, while scripting, planning, shooting and editing.

Screenwriting Introduction (Drama elective only) Get inspired, share your ideas and work with a professional screenwriter. Learn to craft your ideas into a strong narrative with this practical writing workshop. Learn how to develop your story into a compelling narrative with vivid characters, dynamic action and interactive locations; write believable dialogue; construct story form and structure; and format and draft your script to industry standards. Practical exercises will inspire you to write, write, write! Documentary Scriptwriting (Documentary elective only) Develop your ideas for a compelling documentary project with a thorough exploration of the craft of documentary scriptwriting. From research to interviews, treatments to scripts, the course explores the challenges of writing compelling stories for the documentary genre. Practical group sessions in developing concepts and constructive feedback on written treatments will push you towards a strong, well thought-out project.

Set Protocols and Screen Industry Induction To help you work effectively in the screen production environment, this course provides general industry knowledge, the protocols of working on set or in a television studio, a knowledge of “who’s who” on set, the hierarchies and processes within various screen Departments and safety considerations. Production Management This course is designed for those seeking to production manage or produce independent productions. It provides a comprehensive overview of how to manage the entire production process and includes practical applications such as scheduling your own production, as well as a range of field trips and guest speakers. Pitching Workshop How to present your idea - and yourself - to funders, investors, and producers in a succinct and engaging way. Introduces participants to the practicalities and the craft of producing film and television in Australia including concept and script development, the market and audience.

Introduction to Directing Designed for beginners, this course provides you with essential skills for directing for the screen. Apply your skills by directing a cast of actors under the guidance of an industry professional. Develop a vision, understand screen grammar, work with cast and crew, and direct with confidence.

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Course Program (Continued)

Cinematography Foundation This practical and popular introductory workshop provides a solid foundation for new Cinematographers, including planning, camera operation, framing and composition, lighting and camera movement.

Location Sound Learn about using microphones on location and get the skills you need to capture quality sound, every time.

Assistant Directing (Drama elective only) Learn the craft of scheduling a film to ensure it is finished on time and on budget, and how to manage a crew during principal photography.

Art of the Documentary Interview (Documentary elective only)This is a comprehensive workshop providing a thorough introduction to the craft of interviewing for the screen. You’ll learn off-screen and on-screen interview techniques, and how to get material you can use in the telling of your screen story. Introduction to Editing & Basic Editing Principles This comprehensive workshop is an exercise-based course covering basic editing procedures using platforms such as Avid, Premiere and Final Cut. Gain an overall understanding of the principles and strategies for non-linear editing and learn about the basic features of any of the programs, as well as fundamental picture editing principles.

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Make your film for an audience.

Open Channel’s SCRIPT 2 SCREEN gets you thinking from day one about your audience. You’ll develop your own marketing and release strategy, and be supported to use the web and social media to build anticipation for your film early on, and to guide your project’s development.

Options for your film’s release include:

Film Festivals

Open Channel graduate films have screened at national and international film festivals. We will support you to develop a festivals strategy, develop a strong press kit, and target and submit for festivals and other pop-up theatrical screening events including:

Tropfest -- www.tropfest.com

Flickerfest -- www.flickerfest.com.au

St Kilda Film Festival -- www.stkildafilmfestival.com.au

Human Rights Arts and Film Festival -- www. hraff.org.au

Web and Mobile Video

Open Channel is a national leader in web and mobile video, and is the host of the Online Video Awards (www.ovas.tv) in partnership with YouTube.

YouTube -- www.youtube.com

Vimeo -- www.vimeo.com

ABC iView -- www.abc.net.au/iview

Short of the Week -- www.shortoftheweek.com

Broadcast

Open Channel films have screened on ABC2, SBS and Channel 31 and we have the relationships to help you get your film seen by the right people in television.

ABC2 -- www.abc.net.au/abc2

SBS -- www.sbs.com.au

Channel 31 -- www.c31.org.au

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How does it work? DRAMA & WEBSERIES STREAM

ScreenwritingIntroduction

Digital FilmmakingIntroduction

Production Management

AssistantDirecting

Set Protocols

Camera and Lighting Workshops

Pitching Workshop

Introduction toDirecting

LocationSound

EditingWorkshop

Start!

Write your script(we’ll give you feedback)

The Technical Stuff The Creative Stuff

Shoot Your Film(and crew on others)

Screen Your Film(and start your career!) Cut Your Film

(with our help!)

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How does it work? DOCUMENTARY STREAM

ScreenwritingIntroduction

Documentary FilmmakingIntroduction

Production Management

Art of the Interview

Set Protocols

Camera and Lighting Workshops

Pitching Workshop

Introduction toDirecting

LocationSound

EditingWorkshop

Start!Write your doco script

(we’ll give you feedback)

The Technical Stuff The Creative Stuff

Shoot Your Film(and crew on others)

Screen Your Film(and start your career!) Cut Your Film

(with our help!)

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Post-course Options

“Open Channel has fantastic resources and gave me opportunities I wouldn’t have had anywhere else. There’s no one else in Melbourne with that same community-based spirit that can offer support and advice like Open Channel.” Past Graduate Survey

Students leave Open Channel’s SCRIPT 2 SCREEN with strong peer and industry networks, solid production and employability skills through experience that gets your career on track! Our membership ensures graduates remain actively involved in networking opportunities. Many Open Channel graduates are now working in the film and television industry and others have chosen to go on to further study.

There’s a huge sense of achievement of having made your own screen production from start to finish. As a filmmaker, there’s no better way to develop your craft than through real world screening outcomes to a real audience.

Graduate films have screened on NITV/SBS, ABC, Channel 31, and at National and International festivals, and won many prestigious awards. Our graduates have achieved entry to further tertiary level film and media courses at leading institutes.

Industry Placement ProgramIn addition to the application of your new skills on the training show made for Channel 31, participants also have the opportunity to gain an attachment to other film or television programs or within the screen industry during the holiday break or after the course. Placements are subject to availability, suitability, and Open Channel will ensure that adequate supervision and training support will be available for you.

Case Study: Kishani Selvadurai

Since completing the SCREEN 2 SCREEN program at Open Channel, Kishani Selvadurai has worked on a number of productions as a camera attachment as part of her studies, and also undertaken an industry attachment to Peter Worland on the ABC television comedy series, Lowdown. The range of supervised activities Kishani carried out as part of her workplace-based training agreement included data transference, syncing audio and video tracks, labelling clips, FCP project management, compiling outtakes for assembly, organising audio files, preparing DVD rushes for the day, and preparing print takes for screening. Kishani says “I had a brilliant time working with Peter. It provided me with insight into what else is possible in post-production.”

Open Channel maintains a referral database for graduates seeking work as crew. This database is utilised by Open Channel supported productions and clients looking for crew members, often in paid roles, and is a valuable opportunity to continue building skills through industry experience. Graduates are working as freelance camera operators, editors, as production assistants and crew on documentaries, network productions, feature films, and within the independent film community.

In addition to SCRIPT 2 SCREEN, Open Channel also offers a year long script development program, scriptshop (CUF60107 Advanced Diploma of Screen and Media) for experienced screenwriters, directors and producers. SCRIPT 2 SCREEN can contribute toward entry to the Advanced Diploma course at Open Channel, or other advanced vocational or higher education programs. Contact the relevant Institution for specific articulation arrangements.

Open Channel endeavors to prepare accredited students for the Victorian industry and continues supporting them through work experience opportunities and ongoing production advice on completion of training.

Kishani Selvadurai, with Peter Worland

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GENERAL INFORMATION.

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All Open Channel tutors are leading industry professionals with at least five years experience in their field. They are skilled, knowledgeable, and passionate about communicating their expertise to you.

Here is a sample of some of our recent industry-based trainers:

• Andrew Prowse, Director, Rush, Underbelly• Ros Walker, Producer/Line Producer, Peaches, Not Quite

Hollywood: The Wild, Untold Story of Ozploitation!• Kath Hayden, Director, Blue Heelers, Stingers• Reg Roordink, Stunts, McLeods Daughters• Genevieve Bailey, Director, I am Eleven• Nick Carlton, Director, OzGirl• Gretchen Thorburn, Sound Recordist, i-Frankenstein• Brendan Campbell• Dennis K. Smith, Writer-Director, Kapyong (History Channel) • David Hawkins, Cinematographer, Academy Award nominated

The Saviour • Brendan Lavelle, Cinematographer, The Gods of Wheat Street• Shaun Miller, Arts Lawyer, Ned Kelly, Mary and Max • Diane Perelsztejn, Director, Kathleen Ferrier• Colin and Cameron Cairnes, Directors 100 Bloody Acres• Vincent Lamberti, AFTRS Graduate, Message Stick• Andrew Brinsmead, Editor, ABC TV

Our Trainers

Life in the world of screen started for Mr. Ozolins after completing a Certificate course at Open Channel. “The course gave me a broad overview from scriptwriting to shooting, editing and the final output of the film. Without the knowledge I picked up on the course I probably wouldn’t have been able to cope as well as I did on a real film set. I had the broad knowledge, which allowed me to communicate with everyone when I finally walked on to a film set, but I fell naturally into the camera side of the business. “After the course I worked on many short films shot around Melbourne. I did anything I could just to get some experience. On one shoot the cinematographer took me on as his assistant and trained me in a camera assistant role, The learning curve was extremely steep but my experience level quickly increased.”

Simon Ozolins, Cinematographer

Andrew Prowse

Why Study at Open Channel

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Why Study at Open Channel

There are many benefits to studying at Open Channel.

• All our training is designed to reflect current industry practice, taught by skilled trainers and assessors who are practicing industry professionals with at least five years recent industry experience

• Open Channel provides an inclusive, supportive and friendly learning environment, where you can feel comfortable whether you are continuing study, or returning to study

• Make professional contacts through networking events and industry trainers

• Gain practical experience designed to get you skilled-up and into the industry

• Small class sizes maximise your opportunities for ‘hands-on’ learning and individual support during our practical workshops

• Access to semi-professional and professional (high definition) digital production & other filmmaking equipment for learning.

• A wide range of support services such as production mentoring and advice, student meetings, kitchen, computer facilities and car parking facilities.

• A digital copy of Open Channel’s comprehensive filmmaking resource, Digital Filmmaking: An Introductory Handbook (latest edition)

Most importantly, as a Registered Training Organisation (Training Organisation ID #3999) our training is guided by the principles of the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2015 to ensure quality of service and an environment of continual improvement.

We offer training and professional development, equipment and facilities rental, production and member support, and screen events. Open Channel is also a Registered Training Organisation* with over 30 years experience in training the Victorian screen industry.

* Australian Skills Quality Authority

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SCRIPT 2 SCREEN participants have the option of completing a nationally recognised qualification, CUF30107 Certificate III in Media alongisde the study and making of their student film.

Students may be eligible for subsidised course fees under the Victorian Training Guarantee (for example, if you are under 20 years of age, or upskilling, or referred through an approved referral agency). Contact Open Channel to see if you are eligible for fee subsidy.

The CUF30107 Certificate III in Media requires completion of 11 Units of Competency.

Units of competency completed by accredited student in SCRIPT 2 SCREEN include (by associated course code):

COREDigital Filmmaking Introduction or Documentary Filmmaking Introduction: BSBCRT301A Develop and extend critical and creative thinking skills

Set ProtocolsSPSII: CUFIND301B Work effectively in the screen and media industries SPSII: CUSOHS301A Follow Occupational Health & Safety procedures

ELECTIVESScreenwriting Introduction: CUFWRT302A Write simple stories or Documentary Scriptwriting: CUFWRT301A Write content for a range of media

Film Production: CUFPPM301A Plan and prepare programs Production Management: BSBITU306A Design and produce business documents

Cinematography: CUFCAM301A Shoot material for screen productions

Location Sound: CUSSOU201A Assist with sound recordings

Assistant Directing: CUASTA301A Assist with production operations for a live performance (Drama Stream) or Art of the Interview: CUFRES201A Collect and organise content for broadcast or publication (Documentary Stream)

Introduction to Directing: CUVCOR08B Produce drawings to represent and communicate the concept Editing: CUFPOS201A Perform basic vision and sound editing Pitching: BSBCMM401A Make a presentation*

* Participants in this course complete a nationally-recognised qualfication, the CUF30107 Certificate for the Certificate

III in Media and will be issued with a Statement of Attainment for BSBCMM401A - Make a Presentation

CUF30107 Certificate III in Media

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Contact Hours Approx 505-555 hours

Dates/Times Part-time course. See our website course links (SCRIPT 2 SCREEN page) www.openchannel.org.au/courses/qualification-courses/script-2-screen/

Fee options

Government subsidised place through the Victorian Training Guarantee Eligibility criteria apply ** (Drama or Documentary streams)

$3,650, or

$730 for eligible concession card holders

Fee for Service (no Government subsidy applies)

$6,758 Drama stream

$6,527 Documentary stream

As part of the enrolment process you will be told when you are expected to pay fees. This may

be before training starts or at specific times during the course you are studying.

** This course is delivered with Commonwealth and Victorian Government subsidy. To be eligible for subsidy you must be under 20 years of age on 1 January on the year of enrolment, or up-skilling (to a higher level qualification), or referred from an eligible agency. ** Concession rate applies to people with a current Health Care Card, Pensioner Concession or Veterans Gold Card at the time of enrolment, or to eligible Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander applicants.

People with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Other Costs All fees listed include all tuition, student services, 3 days equipment hire, edit suite hire, and production support for your short film. Open Channel provides access to additional production equipment hire at discounted rates. This is subject to standard hire conditions. Costs for materials related to individual project work is the responsibility of participants. Own laptop or computer and printer recommended.

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What help is there with the cost of Training?

Centrelink Assistance No Austudy applies to part time study mode.

Special Training Support People under employment case management programs may be eligible for government support in paying course fees. Contact your case manager for advice.

Australian Apprenticeships (Traineeships) If you have an employer willing to take you on as an employee for a 12 month period (National Training Wage applies), then your employer may choose for you to undertake your off-the-job training in a Certificate III in Media at Open Channel. Your employer may be eligible for a trainee subsidy which can help cover the cost of your training fees. Contact us for more information if you have an employer interested, and we will help put you in touch with a suitable Australian Apprenticeships Centre.

International students Are not eligible to apply. Our courses are not currently CRICOS registered and students can not apply for a Study Visa.

Other Support

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Everyone's heard the age-old adage: "He who can, does; he who cannot. teaches."It implies that those who

have failed to succeed in their chosen field are the ones who end up as teachers. While it's a crude motto, in a field as tough and competitive as the film industry, one is definitely tempted to view teaching as a back-up plan, and a way for creative types to earn their crust. In speaking to a handful of teachers from the· country's premier film schools, however, it quickly becomes apparent that this is an occupation that allows these filmmakers to remain invigorated and at the top of their game, rather than being an excuse to relax into a more stable lifestyle. These teachers areall keen to pass down their wisdom, but this leads to a second

question regarding to what extent "film " - and all the disciplines that it encompasses- can actually be taught. Are directors, cinematographers, costume designers and producers made in the classroom, or on a film set? Well, we're here to report that a lot of that comes down to how good a film school is, and at the end of the day, a film school is on ly as good as its teachers. A good place to start the conversation regarding the possibilities - and perhaps limitations - of film schools and their teachers is with Dennis K. Smith, who teaches at various schools, but has found a regular home at the Melbourne-based Open Channel, where he specialises in documentary courses. "Over my career, I've spoken to a lot of graduates who come out of film school and feel a little bit

EXTRACT from article in Filmink, September 2013

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disappointed," Smith reveals when Filmlnk dials him for a chat. "They would go through a bit of a blue period, and never quite know why. It's taken me a few years to pick up on that, and understand why. I was very lucky in that I had a friend who was a very senior dance educator, and she put me on the right path. She explained that one of the problems with tertiary arts education in this country is that people misunderstand what you're learning. When you're at film school, people tend to tell you that you're learning the technique, but technique takes much longer to acquire. What you're really learning is the language. A lot of students go through a disillusioned period after they get out of film school because they don't quite know that they've learnt." Smith admits to experiencing a case of the postfilm school blues after his own stint at Swinburne University, which he candidly admits was more valuable for changing his sense of direction than teaching him anything. The filmmaker, however, found his path when he stumbled upon a love of documentary, which has led to a string of acclaimed projects, including the AFI-nominated documentary, Rainbow Bird & Monster Man. Smith never envisioned himself teaching, and first approached Open Channel with the hopes that they would help him produce a project. and his relationship with the school grew from there. "Young filmmakers could go to Open Channel with id eas," Smith recalls, "and they were able to develop those projects and get them a broadcast out let. It's st ill happening at Open Channel years later. under a different funding process. which is remarkable. It gives them an edge over other film

schools, who often don't have the connections to do that." Indeed, Open Channel - which offers Advanced Diplomas and Certificates, as well as myriad short courses on almost every facet of filmmaking - stands apart from other film schools due to its inclusive and down-to-earth approach. Recently, the school also shifted its address to Melbourne’s Dockland Studios, and launched Victoria’s Screen Industry Skills Centre, which they hope will become a bustling production hub. “Open Channel is remarkable in that you can’t really box it in with the rest of the film schools,” Smith says. “The other film schools have parameters that have to do with government and the stratification within university. Open Channel has blown out of the seventies communal philosophy about democratising the use of video equipment and getting people - regardless of age, ethnic group, or socio-economic status- involved. They want to put media tools in the hands of people right across that broad social spectrum. People still flock to it for that reason. It’s a unique place to teach, and it almost sits outside of the mainstream film school ethos. It works in a different way; it works to a slightly shorter attention span, and is less precious about its own image. It’s driven by the nature of the practitionersrather than the nature of the college.”

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HOW TO APPLY.

Image courtesy Adam Selwood

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Before applying, read this course information pack carefully. Check that you are eligible to apply and that you can demonstrate your suitability for the course with reference to the selection criteria. Entry to the course is selective and by application.

How do I apply?

Closing dates vary and applications may be accepted up to two weeks prior to course commencement date. Late applications may be accepted after this date if places are available.

General eligibility

All applicants to the SCRIPT 2 SCREEN program must be:• A current financial member of Open Channel, or join on application. See our website

www.openchannel.org.au/membership• 18 years of age or over • Australian citizens or permanent residents or be the holder of an appropriate Visa that

permits study. No Student Visas are available • Available to attend classes on the specified study days listed

All applicants to CUF30107 Certificate III in Media must have:

• An idea for a film or web series• Sound literacy (verbal and written) skills• Sound computer skills• Access to own computer, printer• Own portable hard drive, at least 2TB size

Open Channel is underpinned by the principles of access and equity. Open Channel does not tolerate discrimination on the basis of age, gender, sexuality, disability, or social or cultural background.

Subsidised Place eligibility (Victorian Training Guarantee)

Students meeting the following criteria may be eligible for a Government subsidised place through the Victorian Training Guarantee. Additional concessions may also apply.

Subsidised students must: • be under 20 years, or• upskilling (i.e. have not previously completed a Certificate III in Media or higher level

qualification)

Application and Selection Process

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Application Process

Stage One - Application Form and film ideaApplicants must submit an Enrolment Application form (available at the end of this kit), and must be a current member of Open Channel. Details on how to become a member are available at www.openchannel.org.au/memberships. The application form attached includes submission of a 10 minute film idea (or web series up to 10 minutes for all episodes). This should be well presented but does not need to be highly polished, nor “big budget”.

Places in the course are limited. Your application will be judged on merit against the following selection criteria by at least two Open Channel staff members for the ability to comply with instructions, as well as for course and industry potential.

1. Sound written communication skills.2. Demonstrated commitment to screen production as a career, or a professional undertaking.3. High levels of interest in gaining and furthering development skills and knowledge. 4. Demonstrated commitment to completing the entire program.

Please note that the CUF30107 Certificate III in Media doesn’t require any previous filmmaking experience, we expect that your application should demonstrate your potential rather than your existing skills.

Send your application form via email to: training@openchannel.org.au Hardcopy applications will not be accepted.

We will acknowledge receipt of an application by email.

If you are not selected to progress to Stage 2, you are still welcome to apply for Open Channel short courses.

Stage Two - Pre-course Interview If you are successful in progressing to Stage Two, we will conduct a telephone or face-to-face interview before offering you a place in writing.

During this interview, we may ask additional questions to those on the application form, or may request to look at prior creative work based on information provided in your application form, although prior filmmaking experience is not essential. This interview may help us further clarify or determine your suitability to participate in the course.

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Once offered a place in writing, you can accept your place in writing. You will then receive notification of an orientation day. Need more information? Open Channel Training & Professional Development staff are happy to discuss your training and professional development options with you any time over the telephone or by email prior to receiving your application.

Daniel SchultheisVocational Education and Training ManagerTelephone: +61 (0)3 8327 2016Email: training@openchannel.org.au

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Application Form PART-TIMESCRIPT 2 SCREEN Filmmaking program 2014(CUF30107 Certificate III in Media)

Please complete this form and send via email to: training@openchannel.org.au PERSONAL DETAILS

All personal information collected by Open Channel is protected by The Privacy Act 1988. First Name: Family Name: Street: Suburb: State: P/Code: Phone (H): (W): (M): Email:

Date of Birth: ____________ Gender: F / M Open Channel Member no:__________

How did you find out about Open Channel?

ENROLMENT DETAILS Fees quoted includes all tuition and student services fees.

Details Course Fees Amount DueAnnual Membership fee (if not a current member.) - membership required to apply

$55 full / $44 concession

Fees payable on acceptance into the course: (PICK ONE OPTION ONLY)

DRAMA STREAM - Full Fee $6,758DOCUMENTARY STREAM - Full Fee $6,527SUBSIDISED FEE through Victorian Training Guarantee. Eligibility criteria applies.

$3,650

SUBSIDISED FEE through Victorian Training Guarantee (Concession)on presentation of an eligible concession card

$730

Total payable

Victorian Student Number (if known, for under 25 years of age):

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SCRIPT 2 SCREEN - Supplementary Information

10 minute film project (or short webseries) proposal

Project Title:

Applying for which Stream: [ ] Documentary [ ] Short Drama or Webseries

One Line Synopsis:(refer to Screen Australia publication What is a Synopsis, Outline, Treatment? available at www.screenaustralia.gov.au)

Is this work an original idea of yours? [ ] Yes [ ] NoIf No attach details on separate sheet.

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SCRIPT 2 SCREEN - Supplementary Information

I have attached: Applying for: [ ] Current CV [ ] Full Time [ ] Part-Time

Educational & Work Background

Other Qualification/s since School:

Please outline previous work experience or related study if any. (Not necessary if in CV)

Current Occupation

Main reason for study: (i.e start a business, change career, get new skills)

What are the three main things you would like to get from the course/s you are enrolling in? 1

2

3

Do you have any special learning needs (i.e. literacy/numeracy)? If so please give details: If yes, please give details eg. Written / Verbal / Learning / Disability / Health / Living circumstance / Other

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Are you interested in being accredited (formally recognised) for your prior learning (RPL) or Credit Transfer (CT)?

Computer experience (basic computer literacy is required for Open Channel courses, if you have low computer skills you should consider enrolling in a computer operation short course alongside your study):

1. Rate your level of computer experience: (tick √ anywhere on line below)

High - - - - Medium - - - - Low

2. Is this experience on a: [ ] PC [ ] Mac

Statistical Information

The following questions are collected by Open Channel as a requirement of registration as a Training Organisation to provide statistical reporting to the Australian Government.

Information provided hererin is kept confidential.

Country of Birth: Year of Arrival in Australia: Victorian Student Number (VSN): _____________________________________________

Are you Aboriginal / Torres Straight Islander? [ ] Yes [ ] No Proficiency in spoken English: [ ] Poor [ ] Sufficient [ ] Excellent Do you speak a language other than English at home? If yes, please specify:

Do you have a disability or special needs? If yes, please specify:

Employment Status (ie. self-employed, seeking full-time or part-time work etc):

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PART B: To be completed by students enrolling on a subsidised basis through the Victorian Training Guarantee

PART B1: To be completed by applicant (if required to do so) AFTER discussion with Registered Training Organisation regarding eligibility requirements for government

If applying for subsidised fees I acknowledge that I meet the student eligibility criteria specified in the information kit for the program. The basis for my eligibility is (tick all that applies, as of 1 January in the year of study): [ ] Under 20 Years of Age[ ] Have not previously completed a qualification in Australia higher than that which I am applying for [ ] I declare that the information provided to the RTO in application for study is to the best of my knowledge true, correct and complete at the time of my enrolment/application. [ ] I acknowledge that providing any false information and/or failing to disclose any information relevant to my application for enrolment and/or failure to complete an application/enrolment form may result in the withdrawal of any offer, particularly as it relates to my eligibility to obtain an offer for government-subsided training, and/or cancellation of enrolment at the discretion of my Registered Training Organisation. [ ] I understand that it is my responsibility to provide all relevant and required documentation. [ ] I authorise my Registered Training Organisation to check all available records to confirm that information provided is correct, particularly information pertaining to my eligibility for the Victorian Training Guarantee.

Signed __________________________________ (applicant) _____________ (date)

For applicants eligible for government-subsidised training under the Victorian Training Guarantee, the following statement applies: [ ] I declare that I am an Australian Citizen; or a holder of a permanent visa; or a holder of a Special Category Visa (sub-class 444, New Zealand)[ ] I declare that the information I have provided, including evidence to confirm my date of birth, is correct. [ ] I declare that to the best of my knowledge and after consultation with my Registered Training Organisation that I meet the Victorian Training Guarantee eligibility criteria.

Signed __________________________________ (applicant) _____________ (date)

Name: __________________________________ (printed)

PART B2: To be completed by the Registered Training Organisation (OFFICE USE ONLY)

I confirm that the applicant has been informed of the eligibility requirements for government subsi-dised training under the Victorian Training Guarantee, and that the applicant is aware of the conse-quences arising from a false, misleading or an incomplete declaration.

RTO Representative___________________________________________________________ (PLEASE PRINT)

Position_____________________________________________________________________ (PLEASE PRINT)

RTO Representative signature______________________________ (DATE)________________

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Payment of Fees

Successful applicants will be sent an invoice schedule and 1st invoice due. Full payment of 1st invoice will be considered an acceptance of an offered place in the course.

Standard Refund and Enrolment Conditions

Selection Process

Open Channel is underpinned by the principles of access and equity. Open Channel does not tolerate discrimination on the basis of age, gender, sexuality, or social or cultural background. Training at Open Channel is available to all Australian residents 18 years and over, except where indicated otherwise. Non-residents should check with Department of Immigration for details. Check Open Channel website for entry requirements for a course, and other course conditions, where applicable.

Application is through a two-stage process. Accompanying this application must be evidence of current membership. If successful in progressing to the next stage, you will be requested to attend an Interview with Training staff to ascertain suitability for the program. If successful at Stage Two, a place will be offered. Once accepted, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment and must pay the program fees subject to Refund conditions below to confirm your place.

There are no pre-requisites for CUF30107 Certificate III in Media. Check Open Channel website for other program conditions, where applicable.

Enrolment Conditions

1. Fees quoted includes all lab/tuition and student services fees. Student services fees included in your overall fees provide access to tea and coffee facilities, kitchen, wireless internet, and room hire, but do not include rental of production equipment. Participants should have own computer and printing available for own coursework. Participants are however entitled to a 50% discount on any hire of standard production equipment (additional to provided short film allowances which are free for student films) while an enrolled student subject to normal hire conditions.

2. Scheduling of student productions is subject to availability of equipment and resources and occurs around scheduled class delivery time.

3. Open Channel will retain all rights to any program being produced as part of the course unless by prior agreement with Open Channel’s Producer that the rights may be reverted on completion of the program. Open Channel usually agrees to revert rights to the student, but will retain the right to screen the film for its own promotional purposes.

4. Production placement component and individual assessment sessions are subject to availability, and while Open Channel will endeavour to support students in finding placement within the scope of the individual training plan, it provides no guarantee that a production place will be available at the requested time.

5. Students must have a course attendance rate of at least 80% to fulfill the requirements of the course.

Additional Conditions for Accredited Students

5. Recognition of Prior (RPL) or Credit Transfer (CT) is available to applicants on request at commencement of the program and assessment at this stage is at the discretion of the Program Co-ordinator. RPL/Credit Transfer cost at Open Channel is $100 per CUF30107 Certificate III in Media Unit.

6. SCRIPT 2 SCREEN / CUF30107 Certificate III in Media is approximately 505-555 Hours in duration including production and self directed learning. It is a condition of enrolment that all students maintain attendance of at least 80%, and comply with the student Code of Conduct as outlined in the Student Handbook provided at orientation. Participants failing to maintain appropriate attendance or failing to comply with the Code of Conduct will be subject

Open Channel maintains a trust account for safeguarding student fees and bonds.

Payment Details and Student Declaration

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to Open Channel’s policies and procedures and may result in withdrawal of your enrolment.

7. Assessment in Units of Competency requires completion of all coursework within negotiated timeframes. One attempt at final assessment for each Unit is included in your course fees. Re-attempts at no additional charge are at the discretion of the assessor.

8. Students are entitled to, at no additional cost, a formal Statement of Attainment on withdrawal, cancellation or transfer prior to completing the qualification, provided the student has paid in full for the tuition related to the units of competency to be shown on the Statement of Attainment.

Refund Conditions

1. Notice of an applicant’s intention to withdraw from a course must be received in writing 21 days before commencement in order to receive a full refund.

2. No refund will apply if an applicant withdraws 21 days or less days prior to commencement of a Qualification course.

3. All eligible refunds will be made within 30 days notification of withdrawal or cancellation.

4. Open Channel reserves the right to reschedule or amend the course schedule. In this event, if a student cannot attend, no refund applies for full Qualification students.

5. Open Channel’s policy is to contact all enrolled students no later than 48 hours prior to commencement to confirm or, if necessary, cancel scheduled courses.

Personal Release

By enrolling you agree, unless indicating otherwise in writing prior to the course, that Open Channel may use your likeness or image (i.e. photographs), comments and testimonials, or coursework in marketing activities including on the internet or social media sites.

DECLARATION

I have read the Course Application Form. I understand and accept the Selection Process and Refund Conditions specified. I understand that my place is not confirmed until I receive written notification by email:

__________________________________ _____________________ Student (or Parent/Carer) Signature Date

Open Channel automatically recognises the AQF qualifications and Statements of Attainment issued by any other Registered Training Organisation (RTO) in Australia. OPEN CHANNEL is a Registered Training Organisation, (TOID 3999) with ASQA authorised to deliver the following nationally recognised training programs: CUF30107 Certificate III in Media and CUF60107 Advanced Diploma of Screen and Media. OPEN CHANNEL is committed to providing students with assessment opportunities that are valid, reliable, flexible and fair. Assessment in nationally-recognised training is based on units of competency taken from the CUF07 Screen and Media Training Package, and other units of competency imported from related Training Packages.

Open Channel Co-operative Ltd ABN 67 060 585 631

476 Docklands Drive, Docklands VIC 3008 T 03 8327 2016 F 03 8672 3335

e: info@openchannel.org.au web: http://www.openchannel.org.au

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(c) Open Channel 2014