Ayrshire College's NQ Film and Broadcasting students Ayrshire Film Festival, held at the iconic Astoria Cinema in Ayr recently. This annual showcase event offers students a platform to screen their work to a public audience.

The festival, which was free and open to the public featured a variety of student-made films spanning different genres: from heartfelt dramas to imaginative thrillers. The films reflected the students’ unique voices and storytelling abilities and gave them the opportunity see their films on the big screen, network with industry professionals, and gain experience in presenting their work publicly. 

A panel of industry judges selected winners in four categories:

  • Best Level 5 Film: ‘Childhood’ by Emma Levick 
  • Best Level 6 Film: ‘Zombie Neds’ by Ethan Mitchell 
  • Best HNC Film: ‘Wolfman of Ayrshire’ by Max Mason 
  • Best External Film: ‘Hatched in Fire’ by Avery Malachite 

The Audience Choice Award, voted on by the attendees, was awarded to ‘Cyberpunk Newsagent’ by Callum Blair. 

Judge, Nathan Clark, a Media Manager and Freelance Motion Graphics Designer, commented: "At the 2025 Ayrshire College Film Festival, myself and the other two judges were very impressed with the level of quality on display from the young filmmakers. The event itself was well-organised, with the Astoria Cinema utilised to its full potential, and as a result, the turnout was great. We had a tough job deciding on the winners for each level, as each film showed clear potential and demonstrated high production value for such early student films. A very professionally run festival and a fantastic day overall!" 

The event brought together students, staff, and guests from other colleges highlighting Ayrshire College as a hub for creative excellence and innovation. 

Johnnie O’Byrne, Curriculum Quality Manager, Creative, Hair, Beauty, Comp Therapies & Make Up Artistry said: “It’s clear that this event is more than just a showcase, it’s a testament to the hard work and skill of our staff and students, and an inspiring reminder of the talent emerging from Ayrshire College. If you have any interest in the work of talented future filmmakers, local creatives, or just good times, then this event is one for your calendars. We can’t wait to see what next year’s festival has in store!”