A film competition is inviting children to share their stories of hope on screen.
The Pauline Quirke Academy (PQA) of Performing Arts is offering children in Southampton the chance to win a year-long scholarship in comedy, drama, musical theatre, TV and filmmaking through its national filmmaking competition, Bring Hope Home.
Open to UK residents aged 6 to 17, the competition challenges entrants to create a short film exploring the theme of hope.
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Nick Pilton, head of film and TV at the Pauline Quirke Academy, said: "The PQA family is fully behind Charlie as he takes on this incredible trek for Alzheimer's Research UK in honour of Pauline.
"This film challenge is our way of continuing Pauline's legacy of nurturing young talent across the UK, giving every child, from all backgrounds, the chance to explore their creativity and share their voice.
"We can't wait to see the inspiring stories of hope that young filmmakers bring to life, and to welcome our scholarship winner into the PQA family."
The film challenge was launched in support of Charlie Quirke’s trek for Alzheimer’s Research UK in December, undertaken in honour of his mother and PQA founder, Pauline Quirke.
Entrants are invited to produce a 60 to 90-second film using voiceover and visuals to tell a story of hope.
All film formats are eligible, including live-action, animation, and mixed media.
The competition prompts young creators to explore questions such as what they are hopeful about, where hope is most needed, and how hope shapes emotions and actions.
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Younger participants are encouraged to collaborate with family members, making the project a chance for shared creativity.
The winner will receive a one-year scholarship to one of the 250 PQA academies across the UK, along with a trophy and a screening of their film at the PQA Film Festival 2026.
Three runners-up will receive PQA merchandise bundles and trophies.
All entries will be featured on the PQATV YouTube channel.
The competition is open to all eligible young people, regardless of whether they currently attend PQA.
Films must be submitted to the PQA by January 9, 2026.
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