CREATIVE FUTURES 2026

Monthly screenings

In the months before the festival, we will be screening a number of films loosely focused on the theme “Home”. They are open to everyone, but especially aimed at students and young people in the Cambridgeshire area. They are also completely free to attend!

Keep up to date with what's screening via the Watersprite Instagram @waterspritefilm and book your tickets using the link in bio.

CREATIVE FUTURES DAY 2026

Watersprite’s Creative Futures Day is a unique opportunity for students in the East of England to learn directly from incredible figures across the film industry. Taking place on the first day of the festival (Friday, the 6th of March), we are hosting a day of talks/workshops packed with hands-on sessions led by industry professionals.

Designed to demystify various aspects of film production, from storyboarding and directing to various technical roles, we’ll be sharing insider tips on how to start your own projects, no matter their background, budget or experience level.

If you are a student or representing a school and are interested in attending, contact Head of Department Dasiy Shaw at daisy.shaw@watersprite.org.uk

Workshop Details and Timings:

  • Talks/Workshops across the day will include practical skills such as storyboarding, directing for screen, cinematography and documentary making, as well as an industry panel on first steps into the industry. All Workshops and panels will be led by industry professionals, many of whom are local such as Vine FX, RTS East and DragonLight Films.

  • 9:30-45 - Students' Arrival and Registration

    10:00 - Welcome to Creative Futures Day! (Introduction Speeches)

    10:15 - Royal Television Society East Talk + Q&A

    11.15 - Break

    11.30-Talks/Workshops

    1:00 - 2:00 - Lunch + Creative Careers Fair

    2:00 - 3:00 - Talks/Workshop

    3:00 - 3:30 - Closing Words


    Creative Futures Day will take place at the Old Divinity School, St John’s College, Cambridge, CB2 1TP.

  • Can’t make it to the festival? Don’t worry! This year, we are introducing a new digital library of the talks and workshops delivered in our events programme during the festival. Watch this space to gain access!