October 20–24, 2025 | Byron Bay • Ballina • Mullumbimby

The Byron Bay International Film Festival (BBFF) invites local educators and students to
experience the power of storytelling through film at the 2025 Schools Program, running
from Monday 20 October to Friday 24 October across venues in Byron Bay, Ballina, and
Mullumbimby.

Proudly supported by Byron Shire Council, the BBFF Schools Program offers thoughtfully
curated film packages for Primary and Secondary students, drawn from hundreds of
national and international submissions. The selection includes animation, live-action, and
documentary films, all designed to expand horizons, encourage critical thinking, and inspire

creative expression.
“Film is a powerful educational tool,” says Poppy Walker, Schools Sessions Curator and
acclaimed filmmaker based on Bundjalung Country. “It gives students the opportunity to see
the world through someone else’s eyes and reflect on their own identity and ideas. There’s
nothing quite like watching great cinema in a theatre, together.”

Program Highlights

Primary School Program:
• BLU’S (India): A young girl battles the destruction of nature with heart and courage.
• Wolfie (Czech Republic): A charming, inky tale about embracing mistakes and
creativity.
• South Sounds (Australia): Magical marsupials use music to bring harmony to their
community.
• The Constructor (USA): A joyful, Lego-fuelled story of imagination and sibling love.

High School Program:
• A Body Called Life (USA): A poetic journey into the microscopic world and self-
discovery.
• Squeegee Boy (Taiwan/USA): A trans teen’s gritty, powerful search for belonging.
• Hatker (Argentina): A surreal office allegory about power, conformity, and choice.
• The Tinsel Years (Australia): A fake funeral leads to real revelations in a bold coming-
of-age short.

Educators will receive comprehensive Teachers’ Notes with discussion prompts and behind-
the-scenes insights to enrich the experience. And yes, the candy bars will be open, making

the excursion a hit with students! Schools can also request a Double Feature session for a
full day of learning and entertainment.

Booking Details
Bookings are now open and must be made directly by each school.
Closing date for bookings is Friday, 26 September 2025.
To request a booking form and explore session details, email: [email protected]

Venues include:
• Palace Cinemas Byron Bay
• Palace Cinemas Ballina
• Drill Hall Theatre, Mullumbimby