
Aesthetica Short Film Festival 2025 – Inspiring kids’ workshops
Experience Aesthetica in York, where creativity meets innovation! Enjoy screenings across genres including animation, comedy, drama, fashion, music video, thriller, VR, games, podcasts and more. Dive deeper with inspiring masterclasses, hands-on workshops and vibrant networking opportunities. Whether you’re a filmmaker or film fan, Aesthetica is your gateway to the future of storytelling.
This November, kids can step behind the scenes and into the world of film, gaming and animation with a brilliant line-up of hands-on workshops. Led by expert instructors, each session is designed to spark creativity, build confidence and give children the chance to create something amazing.
Workshops are tailored to two age groups: 7 to 10 years and 11 to 14 years, so there’s something for every budding storyteller, coder or animator.
🎥 FILM MAKING WORKSHOPS
Want to be a Filmmaker?
Discover the magic of filmmaking in this hands-on workshop led by PQA. Young filmmakers will learn the basics of camera operation, sound design and direction, before planning, directing and shooting their own short film – perfect for sharing with family and friends.
8th and 9th November 2025 – Ages 7 to 10 – £12
Stories for Screen
From script to screen! This dynamic PQA workshop introduces older children to the art of storytelling and performance. Working in groups, they’ll create imaginative plots and compelling characters, learning how to bring their ideas to life on camera. By the end, they’ll showcase their own short film project.
8th and 9th November 2025 – Ages 11 to 14 – £12
🎮 GAMING WORKSHOPS
How to Make a Game?
Led by ComputerXplorers, this workshop is the perfect first step into coding. Children will be introduced to coding software and guided through creating their own digital stories, games and animations – boosting creativity and problem-solving skills along the way.
8th and 9th November 2025| – Ages 7 to 10 – £12
Want to Be a Game Developer?
Older children can take their first steps into game design with ComputerXplorers. From character development and level creation to coding basics, this workshop offers hands-on experience in creating original games – a brilliant chance to unleash imagination and technical skills.
8th and 9th November 2025 – Ages 11 to 14 – £12
✨ ANIMATION WORKSHOPS
How to Make Stop-Motion Animation?
Step into the magical world of stop-motion! Children will work in pairs or small groups to brainstorm, design and animate their own creations, using models, props and characters they’ve made themselves. By the end, their ideas will come to life on screen.
8th and 9th November 2025 – Ages 7 to 10 – £12
Characters Come to Life
Claymation comes alive in this creative workshop! Participants will design and animate their own characters, producing a short film clip of around 10–15 seconds. A fun and collaborative way to develop creativity, teamwork and technical skills.
8th and 9th November – Ages 11 to 14 – £12
BOOKING INFO
- – Workshops are £12 per child, per session
- – Tickets are sold separately and are not included with a festival pass
- – Places are limited – book now to avoid disappointment!
5th to 9th November 2025 – Visit the website for the details and to book