Information About Chris - Edinburgh teacher

Personal Description:

I am currently a working screenwriter currently optioned and in development with a selection of UK television production companies. In addition to this I'm also an experienced script reader and coverage writer currently freelancing for a range of indie production companies, contests and script consultation services - predominantly focused on short films, and new/upcoming novels and IP.

Before a very brief foray into online media journalism (specialising in TV/Film/Games) I worked as an actor for the better part of eight years - working on a handful of TV and film productions in addition to corporate films, commercials, and small scale touring theatre. During this time I also wrote and produced a small number of short films and stage productions, and have participated several times as as writer/performer at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe after relocating to Edinburgh from England in 2016.

After completing my Masters in Screenwriting in 2021 my dissertation feature script Seven 66 won a handful of contest and festival awards, and in 2023 I placed on the TV Foundations Network Talent Scheme.

Currently I also host and moderate on Scribe Lounge - the UK's largest, and fastest growing online community for screenwriters.

Teaching Experience:

After completing my undergrad, I spent four years working in the secondary education sector. Initially securing a placement at the New York School of Cinema and Performing Arts as a teaching assistant and residential advisor, through Camp America.

After this I moved into the support staff sector, working as a Teaching Assistant for secondary age students with special educational l needs. Moving on from this I refocused back into the drama and media sector working in a specially funded Drama Practitioner assistant role for GCSE and A-Level students before undertaking a position as a media technician. These latter positions allowed me more hands on experience with helping to structure lessons and overall curriculum, as well as covering classes, offering tailored specialised sessions, and running several extra curricular activities.

Teaching Approach:

My approach is relatable, friendly and casual. The most important thing to me is that the students can be honest, and vulnerable in discussing issues, difficulties and goals in their learning. I like to start by finding out the specifics of what students have difficulty with and what elements of a subject area they struggle with and why, or indeed what they are hoping to gain and grow in. Using relatable contextual examples from case studies and my own experiences, explained in a simple, engaging, and fun way, my aim is get students thinking creatively, and importantly - to have fun. I f done correctly, it shouldn't feel like learning.