Last week marked the start of the academic year for 179 new students joining AFTRS. Orientation Week allowed students to prepare for the year ahead and connect with their colleagues as they embark on a lifelong commitment to craft and creative practice. It was a week of discovery, from studio and equipment inductions to social activities and information sessions for students to meet lecturers, alumni and staff, and feel comfortable at AFTRS’ purpose-built facilities.
As one of the world’s leading screen and broadcast schools, AFTRS fosters a culture of excellence with a strong practice-based curriculum that promotes skill-building, creative experimentation and collaboration. Joining AFTRS is the beginning of a commitment to creative exploration in a learning environment that provides a safe space for students to discover their creative voices and form lifelong connections.
Through flexible learning with the Graduate Diploma in Radio and Podcasting and Master of Arts Screen: Business courses, the School has welcomed creatives from across Australia, enabling students to access world-class education from their local communities and clear pathways into the screen and audio industries. The flexible study options have been highly successful, with recent graduates securing roles in regional NSW, such as in Goulburn and Muswellbrook.
Throughout the week, the theatre, studios and classrooms buzzed with anticipation as students embarked on their creative journeys. Key events included in-person and online sessions, an all-school lunch, an ice cream social, a weaving session, shooting and editing exercises, and the AFTRS O-ssentials and meet-the-experts sessions.
Tuesday began with a Welcome to Country ceremony led by Aunty Rhonda, acknowledging thousands of years of continuing education and storytelling in the Country. Director of People and Culture Sharon Zeeman, Acting Director of Teaching and Learning Stephen Murphy, and AFTRS alum and Heartbreak High creator Hannah Carroll Chapman also welcomed the students.
Sharon pointed to the paradox of studying at AFTRS, where students walk through a foyer lined with awards and names of acclaimed filmmakers, with expectations to simultaneously commit to excellence in their craft and respect the space for process and learning. She reassured students that success is built over a lifetime: “You will all learn differently. You’ll all create differently. And that’s the beauty of it, and exactly what you’re here to do. To find out how to be the best version of you in terms of your creative self.”
Stephen highlighted the iterative nature of the teaching philosophy at AFTRS, which equips students with hands-on skills and encourages them to reflect on their successes and areas for improvement. This approach fosters a lifelong practice of continuous learning and creative exploration.
Hannah highlighted the importance of strong creative relationships, encouraged through the AFTRS curriculum, but also noted the importance of living life, because life has a richness that spills over to create authentic stories that connect with people. Connect with the people who become creative collaborators, connect with the people who support future projects, and, of course, connect with the people who are the audience and see themselves in the stories being told.
“People sitting next to you are highly likely to give you a job one day. You will work with them on amazing stuff. Listen to them, listen to their ideas. Treat their ideas like precious little frogs you don’t want to squish. Your fellow students are important to your own development. This is where you make connections,” Hannah said.
Following the welcome session, students were introduced to AFTRS’ state-of-the-art studios, props workshop, costume collection and post-production spaces. Students explored broadcast panels and radio equipment, gaining hands-on experience with industry-standard tools.
In the afternoon, students gathered for an ice cream social, where they met Graduate Diploma in Radio and Podcasting graduand Kyle Bachner, and shared what they expect from their experience at AFTRS.
Wednesday was all about hands-on learning. Students picked up cameras, worked with radio equipment, and practised blocking scenes.
The highlight of Thursday was the annual research lecture, Reflecting on Dreams of Possible Futures, featuring acclaimed actress and filmmaker Mia Wasikowska as AFTRS’ 2025 Artist-in-Residence.
Mia shared her excitement about collaborating with students and staff on upcoming film and documentary projects.
“As social beings, we thrive in connection. Creativity flourishes when shared, and I look forward to contributing to the vibrant community at AFTRS,” she said.
Mia took over the residency from filmmaker and writer Tracey Rigney, who reflected on her time at AFTRS: “This has been an empowering and deeply spiritual experience, both personally and professionally. The opportunity to mentor students has been incredibly rewarding.”
The day concluded with an engaging drag trivia session to set up students for success. The session was hosted by AFTRS alum and Rupaul’s Drag Race star Etcetera Etcetera, where students’ knowledge of audio, screen, AFTRS, and, most importantly, the Student Handbook was put to the test.
Orientation Week was made possible by the incredible Student Centre team, who support students throughout their time at AFTRS. Special thanks to Jake, Kate, Mitch, Rachel, Rochelle and Taryn for curating such a fantastic start to the year!
We can’t wait to discover what the new students will create as they carry forward the creative energy ignited during Orientation Week.
