Film By – d/Deaf and hard of hearing student filmmaking program
This unique 3 day filmmaking program provides an opportunity for NSW public school students (Years 7 to 12) who identify as d/Deaf and/or hard of hearing to dive into the art of filmmaking.

Program information
We’ve teamed up with industry professionals who also identify as d/Deaf or hard of hearing to help students boost their confidence and unleash their creativity in a supportive and empowering environment.
Our mission is to see every student not only succeed in filmmaking but also walk away with the confidence to thrive in a diverse and ever changing world.
This workshop is open to Years 7 to 12 (high school).
Enquiries
d/Deaf and hard of hearing filmmaking workshop
Students will learn from industry professional Sofya Gallon (Deaf director). She is a distinguished Deaf multidisciplinary artist, filmmaker, actor, and playwright. Bilingual in English and Australian Sign Language, she uses video, photography, and storytelling to present alternative perspectives on the world. A graduate of NIDA and AFTRS, she is Australia’s leading Deaf filmmaker, with four AACTA nominations and international recognition. Best known for over 30 years on Play School, she has been a trailblazer in onscreen disability representation. Her work has been showcased at major festivals, and she has contributed to industry discussions at events like the Sydney International Film Festival and the Museum of Contemporary Art.
With Sofya you will learn about:
- scriptwriting
- green screen
- camera work
- editing.
Participating schools/students will be accepted on a first-in-first-served basis.
Participating schools/students will need to make their own way to and from the venue. Supervision of participating students by The Arts Unit teaching staff will only be during the workshop hours. However, teachers may be required to attend depending on individual student needs.
Applications now closed.
Date: Tuesday 3 June 2025 to Thursday 5 June 2025
Time: 9 am to 4 pm
Location:
NSW Department of Education
105 Phillip St Parramatta
Cost
Metro and non-metro schools: $150 per student
Department identified rural and remote schools: $90 per student
A Filmmaking Success for d/Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students
The recent Filmmaking for d/Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students event was a resounding success, bringing together NSW public school students from across the state for an unforgettable day of creativity, learning, and connection.
Led by the incredibly talented Sofya Gollan—a renowned Deaf director, actor, and writer—the workshop provided students with the unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the art of filmmaking. From storyboarding and directing to camera work and performance, participants developed a broad skillset in a supportive and inclusive environment.
But the impact of the event extended far beyond filmmaking. For many students, it was a rare and powerful opportunity to connect with other d/Deaf and hard of hearing peers, fostering a deep sense of belonging and community. Friendships were formed, stories were shared, and students found inspiration not only in their creative work, but in one another.
Sofya’s presence was particularly impactful. Her wealth of experience in the industry and her powerful storytelling as a Deaf artist served as a beacon of possibility and pride for the students. Her mentorship helped students see themselves not just as learners, but as future filmmakers, artists, and confident communicators.
This event was more than just a workshop—it was a celebration of identity, creativity, and connection. The Arts Unit is proud to support initiatives that uplift and empower students of all backgrounds, and this special filmmaking event was a shining example of inclusive arts education in action.
Application process
Students attending workshops with a teacher
- Complete the online application form, including all your students' details and contact teacher information.
- Complete the form and upload all necessary documents at least 4 days before the workshops.
Unaccompanied students attending the workshop
- Email a request for the unaccompanied students to attend for approval to the Program Coordinator – Karishma Mathur
- Complete this online application form, including the unaccompanied students' details and contact teacher information.
- Parents/carers must complete the authority to film and record form for their child.
- Parents/carers must complete the Authority to Film and Record form Film By – Authority to Film and Record form – Deaf and HOH filmmaking program (PDF 217.85 KB)
Please note – all unaccompanied student paperwork must be completed and returned prior to the start of the workshop.
Participating schools and students will be accepted on a first-in-first-served basis.
All student paperwork must be completed and returned prior to the start of the program.