News / UWE Bristol
UWE students scoop three national television awards
Students from the UWE Bristol have won three accolades at the National Royal Television Society (RTS) Student Awards.
The annual celebration, which was hosted by rapper, author and broadcaster Guvna B and is sponsored by 4Skills, showcases the talent, potential and enthusiasm of students across the UK, identifying exceptional skills and craftsmanship.
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The three winning films are as follows:
Best postgraduate documentary short form: Sara Pipernos, Mikey Sneddon and Nyal Mueenuddin for Death at Sea.
The judges said: “Genuinely eye-opening, powerful and important original journalism with purpose.
“This was a story sensitively told with strong access, opening a window into an unknown world.
“The film maker shone a light on a massive injustice which resulted in an accomplished and emotional film.”
Best Postgraduate Saving the Planet: Alexander Crisp for Cowboys vs Prairie Dogs.
The judges said: “A deftly made film that moves assuredly between light and dark tones, with excellent access and impressive camerawork.”
Best undergraduate drama: Corinna Elleschild, Ellis Cate, Louis Barron-Forde, Charlie Guy-Jones and team for Skive.
The judges said: “The winning film impressed the panel with its authentic and relatable story, told with an irresistible life force, wit and energy.”
“Brilliantly dynamic use of camera, interesting framing and sophisticated yet simple lighting brought the drama to life.
“Clever visual storytelling, music and humour augmented the piece; really highlighting the feel of the film’s world and the aspirations and frustrations of the lead characters.”
Leah Swain-Heath and Corinna Elleschild created award-winning film ‘Skive’
A total of seven films made by UWE students across filmmaking, animation and MA wildlife were nominated.
John Podpadec, senior lecturer in filmmaking at UWE, said: “For UWE Bristol screen industries to have been nominated with seven films is excellent news, but to have won three is simply outstanding.”
“In filmmaking, huge congratulations especially go to Corinna Elleschild and Ellis Cate and their team for winning best Undergraduate drama for the breathtakingly beautiful film Skive, which was so richly deserved”.
Sinéad Rocks, managing director at Channel 4 and chair of the RTS Student Television Awards, said the awards are “a brilliant opportunity to recognise the next generation of industry entrants at the top of their games who are creating dynamic, skilled films and soon to be transforming the screen industries.”
“As we celebrate our winners and nominees, it is a reminder of the value of creating content and its ability to evoke conversation and change.”
Submissions are now open until Monday for 2025’s awards.
All photos: Richard Kendal
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