Byron Bay Film Festival Schools Program Sparks Imagination, Empathy and Creativity

Poppy Walker. Credit: Lyn McCarthy

The Byron Bay International Film Festival (BBFF) invites local educators and students to experience the power of storytelling through film at the 2025 Schools Program, running from Monday 20 October to Friday 24 October across venues in Byron Bay, Ballina and Mullumbimby.

Proudly supported by Byron Shire Council, the BBFF Schools Program offers thoughtfully curated film packages for Primary and Secondary students, drawn from hundreds of national and international submissions. The selection includes animation, live-action and documentary films, all designed to expand horizons, encourage critical thinking and inspire creative expression.

“Film is a powerful educational tool,” says Poppy Walker, Schools Sessions Curator and acclaimed filmmaker based on Bundjalung Country. “It gives students the opportunity to see the world through someone else’s eyes and reflect on their own identity and ideas. There’s nothing quite like watching great cinema in a theatre, together.

There’s something powerful about watching films together in a cinema. It creates space for empathy and reflection. I want young people to see their own lives reflected, but also step into other worlds, and maybe even feel inspired to create something of their own.

Program Highlights

Primary School Program:

• BLU’S (India): A young girl battles the destruction of nature with heart and courage.

• Wolfie (Czech Republic): A charming, inky tale about embracing mistakes and creativity.

• South Sounds (Australia): Magical marsupials use music to bring harmony to their community.

• The Constructor (USA): A joyful, Lego-fuelled story of imagination and sibling love.

High School Program:

• A Body Called Life (USA): A poetic journey into the microscopic world and self-discovery.

• Squeegee Boy (Taiwan/USA): A trans teen’s gritty, powerful search for belonging.

• Hatker (Argentina): A surreal office allegory about power, conformity, and choice.

• The Tinsel Years (Australia): A fake funeral leads to real revelations in a bold coming-of-age short.

Educators will receive comprehensive Teachers’ Notes with discussion prompts and behind-the-scenes insights to enrich the experience. And yes, the candy bars will be open, making the excursion a hit with students! Schools can also request a Double Feature session for a full day of learning and entertainment.

Booking Details

Bookings are now open and must be made directly by each school. Closing date for bookings is Friday, 26 September 2025. To request a booking form and explore session details, email: schools@bbff.com.au

Venues include:

• Palace Cinemas Byron Bay

• Palace Cinemas Ballina

• Drill Hall Theatre, Mullumbimby

(More venues to be announced)