Carlow school wins major award for film that delivered 'a powerful environmental message'
The 'remarkable achievement' came at the Rubbish Film Festival awards in Dublin
Carlow’s Knockbeg College is celebrating an outstanding achievement after winning the national Best Film award at the Rubbish Film Festival.
Taking place in the Light House Cinema, Dublin, the students’ winning entry, Whispers of the Forest, captivated judges with its powerful storytelling, cinematic quality and compelling environmental message.
The film explores the often-overlooked impact of waste and human activity on woodland ecosystems, giving a voice to nature through a narrative that blends striking visuals with thought-provoking themes. Through the perspective of the forest itself, the film highlights issues such as littering, habitat destruction and biodiversity loss, while ultimately delivering a message of hope and responsibility.
The production showcased not only technical skill in filming and editing but also a deep understanding of environmental stewardship. The Rubbish Film Festival, a national initiative promoting sustainability and waste reduction through storytelling, provides a valuable platform for young people to engage with environmental issues in a creative and impactful way.
As programme provider, CREATE Schools played a central role in supporting students throughout the process. Working directly with nine of County Carlow's post primary schools, the organisation facilitated workshops in storytelling, filmmaking and environmental awareness, guiding the students from initial concept development through to final production.
Their approach places a strong emphasis on creativity, collaboration and empowering young people to express their perspectives on important social and environmental issues. Through hands-on mentorship and professional expertise, CREATE Schools helped the students translate their ideas into a powerful and polished final film. Carlow County Council supported the programme, which aligns with its ongoing commitment to environmental education and community engagement.
The success of Knockbeg College highlights the strong culture of environmental stewardship among young people in County Carlow and showcases the role of education in driving positive change.
Dee Sewell, Environmental Awareness Officer at Carlow County Council said: “We are incredibly proud of the students and staff of Knockbeg College for this remarkable achievement. Whispers of the Forest is a beautifully crafted film that delivers a powerful environmental message. It demonstrates not only outstanding creativity and technical skill, but also a genuine passion for protecting our natural environment. Initiatives like the Rubbish Film Festival empower young people to use their voices to inspire change, and Carlow County Council is delighted to support such meaningful programmes.”
Dave Sheehan, from CREATE Schools, who worked closely with the students throughout the programme, added: “It was a privilege to collaborate with the talented students of Knockbeg College on Whispers of the Forest. Their imagination, teamwork, and commitment to telling an important environmental story were evident from the outset. The Rubbish Film Festival provides a space for young people to express their ideas in creative ways, and this award is a testament to the students’ hard work and passion. We are incredibly proud of what they have achieved.”
Carlow County Council commends all participants in the festival and looks forward to continuing its support for initiatives that encourage sustainability, creativity and community involvement.