Tenby schoolchildren enjoyed a rare chance to learn about democracy, and the importance of making their voices heard, at two events organised by the education charity FILMCLUB Cymru for Local Democracy Week (October 15-19).

Last Wednesday, pupils from Greenhill School who are members of FILMCLUB visited the Senedd for the screening, in the presence of Education Minister Leighton Andrews and Assembly Member Rebecca Evans, of a new, short film entitled 'Making a Difference'. In it, members of FILMCLUB, including Greenhill student Josh Veale, interview Assembly Members about democracy, their roles and ambitions, and which films and individuals have had a profound impact on them.

The school also received a visit, on Friday, from Rebecca Evans, who is the Assembly Member for Mid and West Wales and was one of those interviewed for the film. Rebecca Evans spoke to the youngsters about the meaning of democracy and the films that have inspired her - and encouraged them to think of ways in which they can make a difference in their school or community.

Commenting on the initiative, Rebecca Evans said: "Films are an important way in which people can connect with issues and values. A lot of films have political narratives or social commentaries which can influence young people to get involved in causes and politics, which can only benefit democracy.

"I chose to share the film Forrest Gump with the pupils because it explores the important themes of tolerance and equality, friendship, loyalty and courage."

Greenhill pupil Josh Veale, 15, said:"This has been an amazing experience. I'm truly grateful to FILMCLUB for giving me so many great opportunities including the chance and the skills to interview people of such a high calibre. Before becoming involved with the charity I had no idea what I wanted to do career wise - now, due to FILMCLUB, I would like to pursue some form of journalism."

The charity - which is funded by the Welsh Government and supported by its main partner the Film Agency for Wales - is also launching a season of inspirational films, chosen by Assembly Members, which young people all over Wales are being invited to watch and discuss in their school film clubs. Enabling children from all backgrounds to connect with ideas, issues and individuals they wouldn't normally encounter is a key aim of FILMCLUB, following independent research which shows film is a highly effective tool to engage young people and help them better understand complex topics.

Supported by its main partner the Film Agency for Wales FILMCLUB launched in Wales in 2011 and now works with over 400 Welsh schools - many of them in areas of high deprivation. Free to all state schools, the scheme helps schools set-up and run clubs for teachers and pupils to watch, discuss and review a diverse range of films, promoting learning in an informal setting while encouraging critical engagement from young people.

Actor and FILMCLUB's Welsh ambassador, Michael Sheen, writer and FILMCLUB champion Owen Sheers, and director and FILMCLUB champion, Marc Evans are some of the famous names actively supporting the initiative. The Film Agency for Wales prioritises film education as a means to improve literacy, engagement, pathways to further learning and crucial skills for the digital economy.

FILMCLUB is funded in Wales by the Welsh Government and is supported by the BFI and LOVEFiLM. FILMCLUB is partnering with the Film Agency for Wales, Literature Wales, Arts Council of Wales, It's My Shout, S4C and the Film Education Network to develop a rich programme tailored to Welsh schools. http://www.filmclub.org/blog/cymru">http://www.filmclub.org/blog/cymru

For information about FILMCLUB or to sign-up for a free start-up session, visit filmclub.org/blog/cymru or call 020 7288 4520.