6-Week Squash the Beef Documentary Workshop

The Squash the Beef Documentary Workshop is an immersive 6-week programme that empowers young people to explore real-world stories through research, storytelling, and filmmaking. Participants develop practical skills in researching, scriptwriting, filming, editing, and ethical documentary practice as they collaborate to create an original short documentary from concept to final screening. With professional mentorship and hands-on experience, this project guides emerging creatives to express their voices, connect with pressing social issues, and build confidence in front of and behind the camera.

Participants will learn how to identify compelling social themes, conduct field research, and develop research questions to shape powerful documentary narratives. This includes:

• Documentary Storytelling and Interview Techniques - They will explore different documentary styles, practise interview skills, and learn how to frame thoughtful questions to elicit authentic responses.

• Filming and Technical Skills - Participants will gain experience in camera work, lighting, sound, and shot planning to capture stories visually and safely.

• Editing and Post-Production- They will learn how to use professional editing tools such as DaVinci Resolve and HitFilm to assemble footage, enhance sound and visuals, and polish their final cut.

• Collaboration and Production Management - Participants will work as a team to plan, film, and produce a complete short documentary, building project management and teamwork skills.

Mentorship and work experience

Throughout the programme, participants receive continuous guidance from experienced filmmakers, actors, and media professionals. Weekly mentorship sessions combine feedback, skill‑building, and industry insight to help each participant refine their craft. Hands‑on workshops simulate a real production environment—from rehearsals and on‑set filming to final editing—offering valuable work experience in multiple creative roles.

Showcase and recognition:

By the end of the programme, participants will have produced a short original documentary that explores a meaningful social theme. Their completed work will be screened publicly at a final showcase event celebrating their creativity and collaboration. Each participant receives a Roadworks Media Certificate of Achievement, recognising their skills, contribution, and commitment to storytelling as a tool for change.

Benefits for young people:

• Gain practical experience across all stages of documentary production.

• Develop research, storytelling, and presenting confidence in a professional context.

• Learn to use cameras, microphones, and editing tools for real creative projects.

• Work collaboratively as part of a production team, building project management skills.

• Produce a polished short documentary to showcase at a public event and add to a creative portfolio.

• Explore social issues through art, using storytelling as a means of empowerment and community engagement.