Submissions for 2026 have closed.

Schools are invited to submit their films based on student interpretation of the theme to be considered for inclusion in our Shining Stars Showcase to be held on Tuesday 22 September 2026 (Term 3 Week 10) at Campbelltown Arts Centre.

Schools are asked to complete the Shining Stars Film nomination form which includes the film submission by Monday 24 August 2026 (Term 3 Week 6). All submissions should be completed in consultation and endorsement of school principals. Schools submitting more than one film will need to complete a new form for each film.

Films will be judged by a panel against a set marking criteria outlined below with up to 2 films selected to be showcased at Shining Stars.
 

All films should be in .mp4 format, 1920 x 1080 (landscape), 25fps and submitted via the Shining Stars Film nomination form.

Sound levels in films need to maintain a consistent level. Films with sound levels that are distorted or disturbing to an audience cannot be accepted. This includes children screaming and poorly recorded speech that is difficult to understand.
 

All films submitted should: 

• be based on the Shining Stars theme ‘fusion’
• be 3.5 minutes in duration or less, including credits
• be in .mp4 format, 1920 x 1080 (landscape), 25fps
• be age appropriate and conform to a G rating
• be appropriate to the skill level of the participating students
• only include students’ first names in the credits
• be original works created in accordance with copyright laws, especially images and music
• not have logos, brands or products visible
• represent the NSW Department of Education’s values and beliefs
• be created by NSW Department of Education teachers and/or students 
• be endorsed by school principals before submission.

Films may be selected to reflect the greater participation of submitting schools. Judges’ selections will include variety and originality, among other considerations and all decisions are final. 

The following will be considered when viewing films:

• interpretation of theme
• originality
• cinematography
• costume design
• storyline
• student performances.

Films may include action, comedy, drama, fantasy, mystery, romance, thriller, documentaries, mockumentaries, stop motion and claymation. 

Successful films: 

• are entertaining to a broad audience 
• are clear in their purpose, narrative and structure 
• use effective editing techniques 
• have a quality sound recording where levels are consistent, there is no feedback, distortion, or wind interference and all dialogue is clear and audible 
• are creative and collaborative. 

All films will be assessed by a panel and marked against a marking criteria for a variety of elements including:

• Interpretation and connection to theme
• story development
• audience engagement
• technical aspects
• originality and authenticity.

Please refer to the Shining Stars film rubric (PDF 76 KB) for further details of each success criteria.

The department works closely with the Office of the Children's eSafety Commissioner to ensure student online safety. As part of the Digital Citizenship program, students learn how to stay safe and healthy while using digital technologies, appropriate and inappropriate online behaviour, and how to contribute online positively. All submitted films must adhere to the G rating.

Information about classification is available at What do the ratings mean?

All films require a talent release form for every student participating. Any adults that may appear in the film as 'actors' or 'supporters' must also have a signed talent request form too. All forms are to be signed and provided to the school upon application. Download the Shining Stars Film authority to film and record form.