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.

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Big Enough to be Vibrant, Small Enough to be Known: The Norwich School Whole School Photograph

By Eleanor Lewis • May 20, 2026

Under gloriously blue skies, the Norwich Cathedral Close became the backdrop for a truly special moment in the history of Norwich School. On 21 April, pupils, teachers and support staff gathered together for a whole-school photograph — a milestone occasion that captured far more than a single image. This year marks the first time our pupil community has spanned the full educational journey, from our youngest learners aged just three years old through to our Upper 6 pupils, who are now on study leave as they conclude their final term at Norwich School. Bringing every year group together in one photograph was both symbolic and deeply meaningful: a celebration of continuity, growth and belonging across every stage of school life. Standing side by side in the heart of Norwich Cathedral Close, pupils aged 3 to 18 reflected the vibrant and diverse community that defines our school. Alongside them stood the teachers and support staff whose dedication, encouragement and care shape daily life across the school. The result was a portrait of a thriving community united by shared values and a collective sense of purpose. Moments like this remind us what makes Norwich School so distinctive. We are large enough to offer a breadth of opportunity, ambition and experience, yet small enough for every pupil to be known, valued and supported as an individual. From the very first days in our youngest years to the final steps towards university and beyond, each pupil’s journey is recognised and celebrated. As our Upper 6 pupils prepare for the next chapter of their lives, today’s photograph also served as a reminder of the connections and memories that will remain long after they leave the Close. For our youngest pupils, it was a glimpse into the exciting journey that lies ahead. And for everyone gathered together, it was a powerful expression of community. SDAG QUOTE : JI QUOTE: One school. Many voices. Everyone belonging.

An Eye-Opening Assembly from Mr Robbins about Friendship

By Eleanor Lewis • May 20, 2026

One day, someone was walking down the street when they fell in a hole. The walls are so steep they can't get out. A doctor passes by and the guy shouts up, 'Hey you. Can you help me out?' The doctor writes a prescription, throws it down in the hole and moves on. Then a priest comes along and the guy shouts up, 'Father, I'm down in this hole can you help me out?' The priest writes out a prayer, throws it down in the hole and moves on. Next, a teacher comes along and the guy shouts up, ‘Miss, I’ve been stuck here so long, can you help me out?’ The teacher gives a quick lecture on how to get out of the hole and moves on. Then a friend walks by, 'Hey, Joe, it's me can you help me out?' And the friend jumps in the hole. Our guy says, 'Are you stupid? Now we're both down here.' The friend says, 'Yes, but I've been down here before and I know the way out.” Character triumphs over talent. The concept of friendship appears simple on the surface, they’re just our ‘friends’. But what makes a good friend is hard to define and easy to debate. It’s something human beings have been pondering over not just for centuries but for millennia. Aristotle outlined three kinds of friendship: a friendship of utility, a friendship of pleasure and a friendship of virtue. For the first two, both these types of friendship are dependent on a particular good or pleasure, take that away and the friendship crumbles. Friendships that are built upon virtue take time and energy on both sides , but they last. Wind the clock forward a couple of thousand years and psychological studies often reveal that the most sought-after trait in a friend is ‘honesty’. People are looking for someone in their lives who is there to co-operate and support, however, this would not be possible if a friend is dishonest, unreliable, and exploitive. Yes, we seek other qualities in a person such as kindness, availability and just generally being pleasant to be around, but to a large degree, these are objective. Instead, I encourage you to reflect on what your moral values are and see which ones you share with those around you; you might just find a friend. These moral values are fixed in their nature, but dependable and flexible on the context. For instance, I value people who are good fun to be around and positive in their outlook on everyday life. However, we cannot be this way all the time, life throws up challenges, holes in the street… and at those moments I need that same person to just as easily be empathetic and understanding. Likewise, if you value loyalty in a friend, someone who will be by your side no matter what, then I would also encourage you to allow that same person to challenge you & for you to challenge them. Friendships need to offer us some resistance when our behaviour doesn’t match our shared, unwritten values. These should not be seen as contradictions, merely the importance of adaptability whilst protecting the core strength of our support network. Recently, a friend reached out to me after a period of little contact, asking how I was. I explained I was finding things tough, overwhelming, scary. The very next evening, he and two other friends were on a train to come and see me. To listen, to support, to give me some small respite from a darkening world. Simply being present was a small act that went a long way to helping me out of a hole. So, the next time you find yourself unfortunate enough to be walking down a street and you fall into a hole, hopefully you can be reassured that you won’t be down there alone or for too long.

Coming Up at The Crypt - Chris Hann

By Eleanor Lewis • May 20, 2026

Statement I have realised during the last few years that there is a thread that runs through all my work which is the idea of containment. Houses, harbours and boats are all containers in different ways and many of Hepworth’s sculptures have elements of containment too. I moved to Cornwall from Norwich in 1982 and this had a profound influence on my work. Although I returned to Norwich in 1987, Cornwall has always remained my spiritual home and the catalyst for my ideas, particularly the harbours of St. Ives, Mousehole and Falmouth. An additional major influence has been a long series of drawings done in Barbara Hepworth’s garden and studio, as well as the works of Paul Feiler and Terry Frost. Integrated in to some of the works are elements of Cubism and Chinese perspective as a method of structuring images. My major concern is with composition and colour, and using colour to open up the space on a 2D surface. Sometimes collage is used as a starting point which determines what the composition might be, although this is always subject to change. The collage elements also act as parts of the real world juxtaposed with the suggested applications of paint. Some works have other Cornish images such as tin mine chimneys, segments of Hepworth’s sculptures, parts of fishing boats and glimpses of sea, beach and sky. These are not abstract works – they are abstracted – all the works start with observational drawing. The challenge with my work is to bring these elements together to produce a strong composition that works visually in terms of different relationships as well as an image that evokes a sense of place and meaning – something that can communicate before it is fully understood. Just as a fisherman is ‘caught’ by the fish, I am continually drawn back to certain places and images. Mousehole harbour with its solid granite walls containing and protecting the small boats from the ravages of the sea is like a womb. The V shape entrance/exit to the harbour is anatomically feminine too and relates to Hepworth’s sculpture ‘Divided Form’ which has been a source of many works.

Lower 2 Bring the Iron Man to Life at The Theatre Royal

By Eleanor Lewis • May 19, 2026

Lower 2 enjoyed an inspiring and energetic “Play in a Day” workshop at the Theatre Royal, where they brought Ted Hughes’ The Iron Man vividly to life on stage. Building on their Michaelmas reading, pupils explored how drama can transform words on a page into a dynamic and engaging performance. Throughout the day, they experimented with expressive movement, physical theatre, and a wide range of vocal techniques, learning how posture, gesture, pace, tone, and volume can shape character and atmosphere. Working collaboratively in small groups, the pupils developed scenes from the novel, thinking carefully about how to convey tension, humour, and emotion to an audience. They embraced every challenge with enthusiasm and imagination, showing increasing confidence as performers while also strengthening their communication and teamwork skills. The workshop encouraged them to take creative risks, support one another, and respond thoughtfully to the dramatic ideas of their peers. The day culminated in a lively and imaginative sharing for parents and guardians, who were delighted to see the pupils’ creativity, energy, and growing stage presence. From powerful narration to inventive staging and expressive ensemble work, the performances reflected not only the pupils’ understanding of the text, but also their willingness to collaborate and experiment. It was a memorable and rewarding experience that highlighted the creativity, confidence, and teamwork flourishing within Lower 2.

BlazePods Provide New Challenges

By Sonja Mitchell • May 19, 2026

With funding from Friends of Norwich School, BlazePods are proving invaluable with sports participation and engagement

The Tortoise, The Monk and Mary - An Address from Revd Child

By Eleanor Lewis • May 15, 2026

At the Home of Martha and Mary – Luke 10:38-42 As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” Many of you will know the story of the Tortoise and the Hare - the one where the hare dashes off at the start of the race and finds himself so far ahead that he reckons he has time for a quick nap under a tree. When he awakes, he sees the slow but steady tortoise crossing the finish line ahead of him. A classic fable about two different approaches – the hare-brain versus the measured mind. Buddhist tradition uses a different animal to describe a similar thing. ‘Monkey mind’ is a way of describing that feeling when we’re rushing so that our attention won’t settle on anything. That state of mind is a bit like a monkey jumping around all over the place. The opposite of the monkey mind is the monk mind. As the name suggests, this is the state of mindfulness that monks cultivate as they prepare for meditation. It is a deliberate calming of the thoughts, so that instead of jumping around, everything is centred and focused. People who practice meditation, both in Buddhism and in other traditions, will tell you that this is hard at first, but it’s a skill that can be learned. The equivalent story in the Christian tradition is the one we heard just now – the story of Mary and Martha. It’s a little surprising when you first hear it; after all, Martha appears to be working hard, while Mary is just sitting around doing – apparently – nothing. And yet at the end of the story, it’s Martha that Jesus gently rebukes. “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things…” Again, the story gives us two opposites. Martha is suffering from monkey mind – she is being hare-brained as she dashes round the kitchen, trying to pull everyone else into her maelstrom. Mary is doing something different – but she is doing something. For one thing, she is being deliberately still. She has found her place of quiet at the feet of her Rabbi. And for another thing, she is listening. The Bible tells us elsewhere that Jesus has the words of eternal life; Mary is paying attention to those words. Measured Mary is using her monk mind. The Trinity term can be a busy one. There’s lots to do – much of it very positive. Cricket, tennis, athletics – all those things you can do outside when the weather warms up. Drama, dance, music – all culminating in a live stage performance on the Lower Close in July. The academic year reaches its crescendo and its conclusion. At the moment we’re all aware of some end-of-year assessments coming up. In an atmosphere like this, you might think that we’d all go a bit hare-brained. Maybe we do a bit, sometimes – although actually we don’t always, which suggests that between us we might have learned a few self-calming skills already. All the same, I think the example of the tortoise, the monk and Mary bears repeating at this pacey stage of term. If we find ourselves becoming ‘worried and upset about many things’, try and remember that things are not what’s most important in life. God and other people are what’s ultimately important, Jesus suggests: ‘Few things are needed – or indeed only one.’ We concluded our assembly with a minute of simply sitting quietly, followed by this prayer: Lord God, you hold both heaven and earth in a single peace. Give peace among the nations, peace in our homes, and peace in our hearts. Amen.

Brains, Stem Cells and Growing Old - Reversing the Ravages of Time

By Eleanor Lewis • May 14, 2026

Norwich School has enjoyed a treasured relationship with the highly respected Norfolk Cambridge Society, and we have played a key role hosting their 26-lecture series on site. The latest Norfolk Cambridge Society public lecture took place at Norwich School on 14 May 2026, delivered by Professor Robin Franklin, FRS, Honorary Professor of Stem Cell Biology at the University of Cambridge. He is a leading stem cell scientist and multi-award-winning regeneration biologist. Professor Franklin's topic was Brains, Stem Cells and Growing Old - Reversing the Ravages of Time, in which he discussed neuro-degenerative diseases and how brain cells are progressively lost as we grow older - a major factor in age-related cognitive decline. Before the 1980s, scientists understood that the brain could not regenerate, as it lacked the stem cells required for the production of new cells. Coherently and with great humour, Professor Franklin explained why he believes that future developments in this field are hugely promising, being at the forefront of scientific innovation that he and his team at Cambridge University are working on. It was a beautifully illustrated lecture and a masterclass in clarity and intellectual stimulation. There was not a free seat in the house. A very interesting Q&A discussion was led by acclaimed local neurology researcher and leading authority on Multiple Sclerosis, Professor Charles ffrench-Constant, who had worked with Professor Franklin. Discussions continued during drinks in the refectory afterwards. The Norfolk Cambridge Society has a simply stellar line-up of future talks ahead, with the next one taking place on 17 September 2026: " A Conversation with Ed Balls " - an interview with TV personality and former high-ranking politician Ed Balls in conversation with Phil Webster, former Political Editor of The Times. Tickets available : HERE . All are welcome. Our thanks go to the dynamic NCS for putting on such a compelling series of talks. Finally, please have a flick through our publication: At Close Quarters Trinity Term 2026 to see our full programme of exciting, cultural events taking place in and around Cathedral Close this term.

Tilly G (Middle 5) and Her Teammates Win Gold at Cheerleading Worlds

By Eleanor Lewis • May 14, 2026

Winning gold at the Cheerleading Worlds is something most athletes only dream of, but for Tilly G and her teammates at Unity Allstars Flame, that dream became reality through hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. Tilly is part of Unity Allstars Flame, an all-girl under-18 team that became World Champions in their very first year as a Cheerleading Worlds team. Their achievement is even more impressive because many teams spend years trying to qualify for the Cheerleading Worlds, let alone win gold. Over the past year, Tilly has shown huge commitment to cheerleading. Since joining Unity Allstars, she and her family have travelled around three hours each way to training twice a week. This meant long nights travelling home, balancing schoolwork alongside training, and giving up so much of her free time to follow her passion. Cheerleading at this level requires strength, teamwork, trust, and determination. Athletes spend hours perfecting routines, stunts, tumbling, and dance sections, all while learning to perform under pressure. Despite the challenges, Tilly continued to work hard and support her team every step of the way. As a first-year Cheerleading Worlds team, Flame exceeded expectations throughout the competition. On day one, the team suffered a minor fall during their routine, resulting in deductions to their score. Despite this, they still finished the day in 1st place and qualified for day two. Determined to prove themselves, Flame returned to the floor on day two with confidence and absolutely smashed the routine, the atmosphere in the area was amazing , they delivered a powerful, clean routine with zero deductions. Their outstanding performance secured them the title of World Champions, winning their division by an incredible 10-point margin and bringing home the gold medal. Something that Tilly will remember for the rest of her life. Her journey shows that success comes from perseverance, commitment, and believing in yourself. Behind the gold medal are months of sacrifice, hard work, and determination, making this achievement even more special.

A Buzzing Blake Studio with the Infants Performing The Bee Musical

By Eleanor Lewis • May 14, 2026

Our Lower One and Upper One pupils delighted audiences with two wonderful performances of The Bee Musical in The Blake Studio. The children proudly took to the stage for a special morning performance for our friends at The Great Hospital, followed by an afternoon performance for parents and families. It was a real joy to showcase the performing arts talents of some of our youngest pupils. Over the few weeks, the children have worked incredibly hard learning their songs and lines, while growing in confidence through drama, comedy and character performance. Their enthusiasm and commitment shone through in every scene, and it was clear just how much they had enjoyed bringing this lively production to life. The show featured some fantastic performances, with many of the children delivering their roles with confidence, expression and excellent comic timing. The audience was thoroughly entertained by the uplifting musical numbers, including the catchy Bee Bop , the energetic Bees Knees and the unforgettable Honey Honey Honey Bee Mine . Mrs Barclay praised the children for their wonderful performances and dedication throughout the rehearsal process, reflecting on what a special experience the production has been for everyone involved. She commented, “The children have loved every part of this journey, from learning their songs and lines to performing so confidently on stage and working together to create such a fun and polished production. I have been so impressed by the confidence, teamwork and enthusiasm shown by every pupil. These performances were a true reflection of all their hard work and of just how much they have enjoyed being part of this very special show.”

Dance Success Across the School

By Sonja Mitchell • May 14, 2026

FONS has supported Dance Competitions to great success!