A GROUP of young film-makers are heading for of London after being nominated for a national award.

Pupils at the Physical Impairment Unit at Commonweal School in Old town have spent many months developing a short comedy film along the lines of The Office.

Earlier this week they found out the film has been nominated at the National Youth Film Festival in the All Shorts Secondary under three minutes category.

The award ceremony takes place on Friday at the Vue Cinema in Leicester Square and the children are hoping they will be victorious.

“I only found out we had been nominated two days ago and I was really happy,” said Camilo Perez, 13, who both operated a camera and appears in the film.

“I am pleased with how the film looks. Everyone worked really hard on the film so I hope it shows.

“Most of us are going to London on Friday which I’m looking forward to because I want to see the films which the other schools have made.”

Every aspect of the film was made by the youngsters, from deciding what type of film they wanted to make, right through to the editing process.

A special rigging was developed so the cameras they used could easily be fitted to the wheelchairs.

Brandon Humphries, 13, operated the cameras during the filming. He said: “I came in a bit later than everyone but still had a great time. Everyone put a lot of hard work into making the film so it’s nice to be nominated.

“I have been to London quite a few times with my family to watch West End shows, so it is good to be going for the awards.”

The children were helped during the production process by Ideal Films Limited with support provided through British Film Institute’s First Light Project.

There are two other films which have been put forward in the same category.

Keith Phillips, a director at First Light, said: “It is a fantastic achievement to be nominated and a reward for all the hard work they have put in.

“This is a new award which schools from all over the country have entered, so it’s great to be nominated.

“The trip to London will be a fantastic day for everyone. It’s held as a proper ceremony so there is plenty of glamour. After the show there will be a professional photocall and an opportunity to mingle with other young film-makers.

“The children say they have got so much out of the whole process. They have had fun and gained a great sense of independence.”