Top Screens Excursion

On Wednesday 29 April, VCE Media students had the opportunity to visit Top Screen 2026 at ACMI, Federation Square, an exhibition of the amazing talents of the 2025 VCE Media students from across the state in film and animation. 

Last year, fifteen student films were selected out of over 350 submissions, providing a fantastic opportunity for students to be inspired for their future productions, particularly Year 12s who will start production later this term. The works on show consisted of an array of amazing animations, music videos, narrative short films and documentaries, showcasing a variety of ideas and concepts that students working in the medium of 'moving image' can bring to the big screen.

After the screening, students were involved in a Q&A panel with four students whose work featured in Top Screen. Travis Mackenzie, a state reviewer for Media, hosted the Q&A, asking students key questions about the development, pre-production and production of their media products. It was great to see Wantirna students participating by asking questions of the panel about specific areas of interest to them. 

Earlier in the day, students started their visit to ACMI with the Story of the Moving Image exhibit. This interactive exhibit allowed students to unpack Australian's screen and media history, with interactive exhibits such as foley rooms, retro and modern video games connected to Australia and a wide range of displays that explored Australia's screen history. This connected nicely to the Australian stories outcome the Year 11s are currently undertaking where students are learning all about Australian identity through media. 

Overall, it was a fantastic day out full of inspiring works for both Year 11 and 12 Media students. Mr Hawkins and I hope students enjoyed the day and were able to come away with some inspiration to apply to their upcoming works. We'd also like to thank our student teacher, Ms. Blake, who came along and supported across the day.

We look forward to seeing the amazing products the VCE Media Class of 2026 produces.

Benn Pollock

Leader of Visual Arts & Technology