Anoushka Craggs (U6) Stars in Young Film Academy's 'Project Paradiso'

May 1, 2025

In the February half term, Anoushka Craggs (U6) starred in the Young Film Academy's 'Project Paradiso' which is due to be shown this summer. To celebrate this and to find out a little bit more about the experience, we asked her a few questions...


So can you tell me a little bit about how were chosen for the Project Paradiso? 

So to be chosen for the Project Paradiso cast/crew you had to show exceptional kindness to those around you, it was mostly based on a behavioural thing from the summer camp. They chose the people who they thought would work best with each other, I think that as an actor the film that I did from the film camp was a comedy which helped a lot as the film for Project Paradiso, Running Hot, is also a comedy. So I think it was a mixture of skill and just your attitude and how you work with others. 


How did you go about fundraising for Project Paradiso? 

Mainly it was through word of mouth, I just told lots of people about it, I did a funded marathon walk, it was a really busy time so it was amazing to have the support of so many really generous people but also other people fundraised with bake sales, screenings of other films that project Paradiso has produced. 


So did you get much support from YFA in terms of fundraising? 

From YFA they gave us plenty of ideas on how to fundraise but they were very clear that we had to do the fundraising ourselves otherwise the project wouldn’t happen. 


How much did you have to raise? 

The original goal was £78,000 which they rose to £82,000 in the end which we managed to raise! 


And where does that money go? 

It mostly goes to the equipment and the specialists that work with that equipment, they brought in 3 industry professionals that work on short form and long form pieces as well as commercials, so they handled all the various equipment. The camera was an Arri Alexa which is what Netflix uses for a lot of their films and shows. It is a really high quality camera and I learnt a lot about it. Going to Italy was of course a huge expense as well. 


And you had a week of intense filming? What was the day-to-day of that like? 

So we would wake up around, 6 then in hair and makeup most mornings in which I would definitely take the longest, being in there for around an hour and a half whereas other people would be much quicker, some as short as 10 minutes! At 10:30 we would be ready but then tech would take some time, we’d be on set from 11. On set we’d have a run through with the director, a rehearsal with the lighting and sound as well as the camera, checking you’re in focus. We would often shoot until 1 for lunch but the aim was always to shoot an entire section/scene before lunch but we quite often ran over. After lunch we’d run from 2-6 but the latest night we did was until 8! 


What was it like filming Iin another country as well? 

It was really cool! I’m not going to lie the weather was quite bad, it was raining most of the week. The scenery is right by Etna so when it was clear and sunny you could completely see her and she was actually erupting when were there which meant lots of volcanic ash which became a bit of a problem for the kit. It felt so surreal being on a film set and in another country at the same time, the lemon groves were also very picturesque. 


Did you decide on the location yourselves? 

No, Project Paradiso is built on YFA’s relationship with this particular farm and so the last 2 films also were filmed there. 


And did your team write the script? 

Yes there were also a group of writers that fundraised but they didn’t come to Italy with us. There were various zoom calls with them about the script and what it means which is really helpful. 


And how does this differ with other film experiences that you have had? 

So I have only really had a little film experience but this was so professional in comparison to what I had done before and the level of focus was just unlike anything else. It was very structured and organised although it was at times chaotic it still felt very structured. 


And how long is the film? 

Roughly it will be around 40 minutes. 


So that’s quite long for only a week of filming? 

Yeah it was 19 pages to do in a week and I think that scene was the least amount of shots we had to do was 3. Each scene varied between 3 and 12 different shots. 


And how many people were on the team in total? 

23 I believe. 


And how many were actors? 

Just 4 actually. 


Had you met anyone before? 

I knew a couple of people that worked on the film in the summer but other than that I didn’t know anyone else so I had to meet loads of new pupil even though we were all at the same camp. 


And what can you tell us about the film? 

I can say that it’s a romcom and that it has something to do with Etna! I can tell you that I had to have my hair crispy fried straight for the entire week so I won’t look like my regular curly self! Oh and there’s 2 couples, one being more obvious and the other kind of just creeping up. 


When is it going to be released? 

July/August time because it is a the longest film that they have ever done on this project and there’s only one person doing all the post-production work. 


And is it going to be sent off to film festivals? Is there a premiere? 

The premiere is around the same time as the Leavers Ball so I’m a little stressed about that! It will be held at BFI Southbank and there’s going to be people flying in from all over. They will also send it to tons of film festivals, the previous project has won 50 or so awards around the world which are quite big shoes to fill. 


What is the aim of Project Paradiso? 

It is kind of a Catch22 in the film industry that you need to have film experience to get on a film set but to have film experience you need to get on a film set. So the idea of Project Paradiso is to give people experience of being on a professional film set, to have that in your portfolio at such a young age. It is really invaluable, as an actor your reputation is built by your performances and if you don’t have anything to show for it, you just won’t get booked. 


What’s the end goal for you in terms of acting? 

End goal is acting in film and tv, I like theatre as well but I find Film and TV more interesting and it requires a different skillset which I really enjoy and also being able to do retakes when I mess up! That’s the end goal, to be an actor. 


How do other people get involved? 

So definitely going to the YFA summer camp, it’s an amazing experience for anyone that wants to get into anything related to film, its really helpful and the tutors really know their stuff and will be able to help you. There’s 2 courses, acting and screen-making, with screen-making being behind the camera and acting of course being in front. There are also various day courses form YFA as well as other film schools that can teach you skills such as how to use a camera. And if you take art, are an actor or just someone who is interested in film look up the opportunities or even just look at School because they will also provide opportunities and workshops. 


By Eleanor Lewis • October 23, 2026
Oscar PW, and Marcus R, competed as part of the East Anglia team at the British Orienteering Junior East Anglia came 7th overall, a fantastic achievement! Here is what Oscar and Marcus said about the event; "This was my first time competing for East Anglia, and I was running up an age category against runners two years older than me. I found the location for the first day quite challenging as there was very little to navigate by in places, which threw me off on some of the controls. I placed in the upper middle of the pack, which was a good result, although I felt I could have done better on another day. The venue for the relays on the second day felt easier to me, and I found the course less challenging. The runner before me in my team had put us in about 18th place, and I think I made a small improvement, taking us to 17th, and our final runner took us to 16th. Across the whole event, EAJS came 7th out of all the teams there, which was a great result considering we were one of the teams with the fewest runners." - Oscar "On the whole it was a very successful weekend for myself and east Anglia. with my individual performance I broke expectations as I was running up an age class, managing to earn an impressive 12th place. As east Anglia were the hosts, we had a good number of runners and a large number of relay teams. I ran the first leg for my team finishing 3 minutes behind the leader meaning we were right at the front of the race after my leg. Overall east Anglia once again performed better than predicted finishing 7th as a team, a very impressive weekend." - Marcus
By Eleanor Lewis • October 23, 2026
The Crypt Gallery, Norwich, presents Unspoken , a joint exhibition by artists Sophie Eade and Marion Stuart , bringing together new paintings and ceramics shaped by their shared interest in text, transcription, and the quiet charge of language. Working from a thematic starting point of writing , both artists explore how words shift when they move across materials — from page to clay, from conversation to surface, from the spoken to the withheld. Their works carry fragments of text that are often difficult to read, partially obscured or embedded within layers of slip, glaze, paint, and mark‑making. Meaning sits in plain sight, but not always immediately accessible. The viewer is invited to look closely, to navigate the tension between what is said and what is left unsaid. The ceramics in Unspoken hold words pressed, carved, or transcribed into stoneware and wild clays. Some phrases emerge clearly; others dissolve into surface. The paintings echo this approach, using text, gesture, repetition, and erasure to test how language behaves with canvas and colour. Together, the works form a conversation about communication — its failures, its hesitations, and its quiet insistence. Eade and Stuart both work at StudioDo a ceramics space in Norwich , where their studio practice is shaped by discussion, shared problem‑solving, and a mutual interest in how materials carry thought. This exhibition reflects that ongoing dialogue: two distinct practices meeting at the point where text becomes form. Unspoken invites audiences to consider how language is held, altered, and sometimes lost — and how meaning can remain even when words slip out of reach. Exhibition Dates: 24 November - 29 November, 10:00 - 17:00 Private View: 27 November, 17:30 - 20:00
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Bringing musical joy to others, Lower School Captain Max W treated the residents of Abbeyfield House to a special impromptu musical performance. Max, a chorister at Norwich Cathedral, delighted his intimate audience with a beautiful performance of Bach’s Prelude No. 1 in G Major on the Cello, followed by a heartfelt vocal rendition of John Rutter’s All Things Bright and Beautiful. His music captivated the residents, who thoroughly enjoyed this special opportunity to experience live music up close. Following his performance, Max spent time chatting with residents, sharing his ambitions for the future and enjoying their company. It was a lovely reminder of the power of music to bring people together, brighten someone’s day and create meaningful connections across generations. Well done, Max! We are incredibly proud of the way you are using your musical talents to bring happiness and joy to others.
By Eleanor Lewis • October 16, 2026
If you love singing and are free on Monday evenings during term time, the Many More Voices choir would love to hear from you. No auditions – no experience or music-reading skills necessary. Join our choir and celebrate Christmas in song Our inclusive and welcoming community choir has strong links with Norwich School – many members have children who are current or former pupils – and we share a simple love of melody, friendship and fun. This term we’re focusing on Christmas, featuring a syncopated mashup of the traditional favourites O Come, O Come Emmanuel and Carol of the Bells, as well as the lilting A Cradle in Bethlehem and a plethora of seasonal singalongs which we’ll enjoy with residents of the Great Hospital on 13 December. From pop to folk and more Under the supportive guidance of conductor and pianist Diana Cripps, from September to July we rehearse and perform a varied repertoire spanning gospel, traditional songs, pop and folk. Everything is taught by ear, although sheet music is available for reference. And don’t let nerves put you off – the more we sing, the more confident we become. Experience the benefits of singing The positive benefits of joining a choir are well documented, from an endorphin rush to a sense of community and achievement. Whatever the day brings we always feel better at the end of a rehearsal or concert. Singing makes us happy, and singing with a lovely bunch of people makes us even happier. We rehearse on Monday evenings in the Norwich School music room or chapel from 18:30 - 20:00. You can check out our website for more information.
By Eleanor Lewis • October 16, 2026
Senior Rugby The Senior Rugby programme got the term off to a strong start with an intensive pre-season, including a three-day training camp at Oakham School and a specialist coaching session with guest coach Harry Simmons, Head Coach of Leicester Tigers U18s, ahead of the annual Norwich School U18 Pre-Season Festival. The festival provided a valuable challenge for the U18 squad, who produced two closely contested performances against St Joseph’s College, Ipswich and Bedford School before finishing with an impressive victory against Duke of York’s Royal Military School. The term began with a pre-season fixture against The Leys School at Shelford Rugby Club, with both U18 and U16 matches taking place. The U18s secured a 38–24 victory, while the U16s narrowly lost 19–15. The first official block fixture saw Norwich take on Framlingham College, with both the 1st XV and 2nd XV recording convincing victories. The 1st XV won 36–10, with Sam Parretti delivering a standout performance. A particular highlight was Ned Francis finishing brilliantly in the corner after a dominant scrum and excellent handling through the backline created the space for him to score. The subsequent fixtures against St Joseph’s College, Ipswich, The Campion School, Essex, in the National Cup Round 1, and Felsted School proved challenging for the 1st XV. However, the team responded positively with a hard-fought 24–15 victory against Wymondham College. Lucas Ashton made a significant impact from the bench, bringing strong carries and defensive intensity. The 2nd XV also enjoyed an excellent afternoon against Wymondham College, securing a convincing 41–10 win, with George Davidson producing an industrious performance throughout. Inters Rugby The U15s began the term with a draw against Framlingham College before facing challenging fixtures against St Joseph’s College, Ipswich and Felsted School. They responded impressively in the National Vase Round 1, recording a dominant 45–5 victory over Wymondham College. Tom McCall, playing up from the U14s, was named Man of the Match following an outstanding performance. The U14s have made an excellent start to the term, securing three victories against Framlingham College, St Joseph’s College, Ipswich and Felsted School. The standout result came against Felsted, with Norwich recording a convincing 41–7 win. Sam Trickey and Tristan Knight shared Man of the Match honours, with Tristan scoring an impressive four tries. The U14s now look forward to the Bedford School Rugby Festival on 17 October, where they will test themselves against some of the strongest school rugby programmes across East Anglia and Southern England. Juniors Rugby The U13s opened the term with a challenging fixture against Gresham’s School before responding with an excellent 30–20 victory over St Joseph’s College. Tom McCardle and Teddy Pinder were among the standout performers. The squad then competed in a triangular fixture against Finborough School and Woodbridge School, securing a win against Woodbridge but narrowly missing out against Finborough. The U13s will now host the Norwich School U13 Mini Rugby Festival on Wednesday 14 October, welcoming Beeston Hall, Wymondham College, Town Close and Langley School for an exciting afternoon of rugby. The U12A squad also made a fantastic start to the term, opening with a convincing 45–5 victory against Gresham’s School. They followed this up with two further wins against Finborough School and Woodbridge School in a triangular fixture. Arthur Blyth and Jesse Morrell were among those producing particularly strong performances. The U12B squad have also enjoyed a successful start, winning both of their touch rugby fixtures against Gresham’s School and Finborough School.  Overall, it has been an encouraging first half of term across all age groups, with strong performances, valuable learning experiences and plenty of positive signs for the weeks ahead. We look forward to building on this progress after half-term.
By Eleanor Lewis • October 16, 2026
It has been an exciting and action-packed start to the Michaelmas Term for Girls’ Hockey at Norwich School. With a packed fixture programme, cup competitions and plenty of opportunities for development, the girls have embraced the first half of term with enthusiasm, determination and a fantastic attitude. From impressive victories to hard-fought contests against strong opposition, there has been much to celebrate across all age groups. Senior Hockey The 1XI have made a strong start to the season, delivering some impressive performances against quality opposition. A convincing 6–1 victory over UEA provided an excellent opening, followed by a commanding 5–1 win against Kimbolton in the first round of the Trophy Cup. The squad carried this momentum into Round 2, producing an outstanding team performance to defeat Wymondham College 11–0. The result reflected the girls' attacking quality, cohesion and growing confidence, with some excellent passages of hockey throughout. A challenging encounter against a talented Ipswich U18 side also proved a valuable experience, testing the squad's resilience and providing important opportunities for tactical development. The girls responded with determination and a strong work ethic, taking plenty of positives from the fixture. With a third-round Trophy Cup clash against The Perse approaching, the 1st XI will be eager to maintain their momentum and continue their cup campaign. The 2XI have been equally impressive, reaching the half-term break with an unbeaten record. A thrilling 3–2 victory over Ipswich was a particular highlight, with the girls demonstrating composure and determination in a closely contested, end-to-end encounter. Further convincing victories over Culford (4–1) and Felsted (6–0) have underlined the squad's excellent start to the season. The 3XI have also enjoyed success, securing a well-deserved victory over Culford. 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Both the U14As and U15As secured victories against Ipswich, further demonstrating the progress being made across the age groups. More recently, the U15 squads hosted Culford and Felsted in a triangular fixture afternoon, enjoying a particularly successful outing with victories in both matches. A standout result came from the U15Bs, who secured an excellent 3–0 win over Culford, highlighting their growing confidence and ability to perform as a team. Meanwhile, the U14 squads travelled to Felsted for their triangular fixtures, with both teams recording a draw and a narrow defeat. Despite the closely contested results, the afternoon provided valuable match experience, with the girls showing resilience, determination and an increasingly strong understanding of their roles on the pitch. It has been especially rewarding to see the U14s adapting to the demands of 11-a-side hockey, developing their positional awareness, decision-making and confidence with each fixture. The progress across both age groups has been encouraging, and there is plenty to build upon as the season continues. Junior Hockey Our Junior squads have made an enthusiastic start to the season, with a strong emphasis on developing fundamental skills, building confidence and gaining valuable competitive experience. The U12As have enjoyed some excellent results, recording victories over Gresham's and Wymondham College, while the U13As have also impressed with wins against Wymondham College and Witham Hall. These performances reflect the girls' growing confidence and their ability to transfer the skills developed in training into competitive situations. A recent block of fixtures against Woodbridge, hosted at Harleston, provided another excellent afternoon of hockey. With plenty of closely contested, end-to-end matches, the girls were challenged to make quick decisions, work together effectively and apply the principles covered in training, particularly their PCA work. At Junior level, our priority remains creating a positive and enjoyable environment in which every player feels confident to develop, challenge themselves and embrace new opportunities. It has been wonderful to see the enthusiasm and energy the girls bring to both training and matches, alongside the progress they are making individually and collectively. Hockey outside of School Alongside our extensive school hockey programme, it has been fantastic to see a number of girls continuing to pursue their hockey ambitions beyond school. We are fortunate to have players involved in county and East Talent Academy pathways, as well as those competing at National League level for their respective clubs. These opportunities are a reflection of the girls' dedication, commitment and passion for the sport. We are proud to support players at every stage of their hockey journey, from those discovering the game for the first time to those aspiring to compete at the highest levels. Our aim remains to provide an inclusive, ambitious and enjoyable hockey environment in which every pupil has the opportunity to develop, succeed and foster a lifelong love of the game. Looking ahead to next half term With another busy half term ahead, there is plenty to look forward to across the Girls’ Hockey programme. The 1st XI will be hoping to extend their Trophy Cup run with their upcoming third-round fixture against The Perse, while our Junior, Intermediate and Senior squads have an exciting programme of fixtures ahead. The second half of term will see competitive fixture blocks against Norwich High School, Framlingham College, The Perse, Kimbolton and Haileybury School, providing further opportunities for the girls to challenge themselves, gain valuable match experience and continue their development against a variety of opposition. 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By Eleanor Lewis • October 16, 2026
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By Eleanor Lewis • October 15, 2026
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By Eleanor Lewis • October 15, 2026
Pioneer gorilla conservationist Dr Dian Fossey famously said in 1967 that she fully expected gorillas to go extinct within 20 years. Her tragic murder in 1985 means she has not been around to see the heartwarming conservation success that has witnessed mountain gorilla populations expanding from sub 250 in 1981 to nearly 1,100 worldwide currently. This has been the result of concerted action in central Africa led by a range of wildlife organisations, including the highly respected ‘The Gorilla Organization’. This organisation has been piloted with purpose and charisma by Jillian Miller for over 34 years and we were honoured to be able to welcome her on site on 15 October 2026. Working in partnership with the Royal Geographical Society, who regularly uses our Blake Studio for their series of public lectures, an engaged audience of RGS Fellows, staff, parents, ONs, pupils and friends of the school heard a fascinating update on the status of gorilla conservation in Africa. Jillian’s organisation has been particularly effective in harnessing universal affection for these most charismatic of primates together with the appeal of ethical tourism, to raise funds and deliver vital conservation work to stabilise and steadily grow populations of these photogenic rainforest-dwelling apes. Their mission is to build on the commitment of local communities in combatting the combined challenges of extensive deforestation, barbaric poaching, periodic volcanic activity and the ever-present threat from the deadly ebola virus. Jillian took us on her organisation’s compelling journey. To learn more about the inspiring work of The Gorilla Organization, please check out: www.gorillas.org . The next RGS talk is given by Dr Andy Jefferson FRGS who will focus on the very pertinent topic of sustainable aviation. Tickets are here: Sustainable aviation: reducing the climate impact . All are welcome. For information on all other cultural activities held at Norwich School this autumn, please take a look at: At Close Quarters - Michaelmas Term 2026
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