News Students Take A Shot At Documentary Filmmaking 18.02.2026

First-year BTEC Creative Media students at Collyer’s were given an exceptional industry opportunity as they took part in an intensive documentary workshop delivered by BAFTA award-winning filmmaker Lily Murray.

Across the two days, Lily—known for her dynamic, moment‑driven approach to documentary storytelling—worked hands‑on with students to unpack the essential skills behind shooting on the fly. From mastering exposure, focus, and composition to understanding documentary grammar such as GVs, cutaways, actuality, B‑roll, vox pops, and on‑the‑fly interviews, students were immersed in the real‑world demands of observational filmmaking.

The workshops acted as a powerful springboard into the students’ upcoming coursework unit on documentary practice. Using a mix of DSLR cameras, gimbals, Bluetooth mics, and mobile phones—after all, as Lily reminded students, “a BAFTA was won on an iPhone”—participants experienced the fast‑paced adaptability required of modern filmmakers.

The sessions were met with enormous enthusiasm from both students and staff. The Collyer’s Creative Media team agreed that the experience was a fantastic opportunity for learners to step into industry‑level practice and are excited at future collaborations with Murray and partner institutions BIMM and MetFilm School.

Rebecca Moon, Head of BTEC Creative Media, said: “It was inspiring to watch our students step so confidently into documentary roles like directors, producers, contributors, and shooters, working at a level far beyond their years. Lily’s expertise and energy made the craft feel both accessible and thrilling.”

Plans are already being discussed for a follow‑up session in the summer, including a deeper dive into Lily’s portfolio and a live Q&A exploring the highs and lows of professional documentary work.

This unique experience has not only equipped students with practical skills but has also ignited a passion for real‑world storytelling, proving that, with the right guidance, the next generation of filmmakers is already on the rise.

Student Jerielle said: “The workshop gave me valuable industry insight and motivation, and learning from a BAFTA winning documentary producer has really boosted my confidence in pursuing a media led career.”

Fellow students agreed. Gabriel felt it was, “An enlightening experience with a true taster into the world of TV and Film, with BAFTA winning knowledge”, while Jacob added: “It was an absolutely fantastic, hands-on workshop experience. I am extremely pleased that we got to spend nearly ninety minutes with a BAFTA winner. She has boosted my knowledge and passion for film and TV.”