Students from across IADT took full creative and technical responsibility for this milestone anniversary production, managing all aspects of the live broadcast under the guidance of lecturers David Cooper and Anthony McGuinness for the production, as well as Liam Doona and Alan Farquharson on set design. Working alongside industry partners including TVM, Creative Technology Ireland, Camalanga Teoranta, and Showscope Ltd., gaining invaluable hands-on experience in live television production and large-scale event delivery.
The production brought together students across of all levels, specialising in TV production, directing, and editing, new media, arts management and set design and creative production. Over two intensive days on site at The Helix, the student team collaborated across disciplines to deliver a polished and engaging live-streamed awards ceremony hosted by Sinéad Kennedy.
Marking the 20th anniversary of the FÍS Film Awards, this year’s ceremony also featured a newly designed set by students from Design for Film, showcasing the depth of creative collaboration across IADT programmes. Their work contributed to a visually striking stage environment that reflected the scale and significance of the anniversary year.
The event welcomed distinguished guests including Minister for Education and Youth Hildegarde Naughton, President of IADT David Smith, and Gerry Murphy of Met Éireann, who presented the Met Éireann Award. Their presence highlighted the national importance of the FÍS Film Project and its longstanding contribution to creativity in primary education.
Students once again worked with professional broadcast infrastructure, including TVM’s OB facilities, enabling them to operate industry-standard equipment in a live production environment. The event also continued its commitment to accessibility, including Irish Sign Language (ISL) interpretation to ensure inclusive engagement for schools and audiences nationwide.
IADT student and Fís 2026 director, Adelicia Boakye Yiadom said “This is my third year having the pleasure of being part of the Fís Crew. Directing the 20th Anniversary of the awards ceremony was an incredible experience for me. I learned so much and truly enjoyed every moment of being involved. It’s an experience that will stay with me for years to come, along with everything I learned along the way. The children themselves seemed to have such a fantastic time, and it was wonderful to see their faces light up as they walked on stage to receive their awards. Hopefully, one day soon, one of them will be directing for Fís”.
The exceptional IADT Crew who played key roles in the production included:
The hard work, adaptability, and professionalism of the student team underscore IADT’s role as a leading institution for film, television, and media education in Ireland, bridging academic
learning with authentic industry experience while supporting the next generation of creative talent.
About the FÍS Film Awards
The live event, which runs annually, offers a unique platform for creativity and recognition for students and teachers who have introduced filmmaking into their classrooms. More information is available on www.fisfilmproject.ie.
Media: Rig-Day Photos (credit: Duane Vetter); Awards Day Crew Pic (credit: Mark Stedman Photography).
