GLOBAL superstar Ed Sheeran has selected a video created by Finn Valley College, Stranorlar to accompany one of his tracks on his acclaimed new album “Autumn Variations”.
Proudly presenting 14 fan created, official music videos from around the world, today sees the launch of Ireland’s entry.
The teachers and students got together, created the script before starring and filming at their school.
The transition year pupils devised the concept with their teacher, Ms Garry of a school love story with a Romeo and Juliet twist!
The school hosts an annual variety show – the mix of love, literature and drama in a school setting seemed universally relatable and complemented the beautiful lyrics and melody of this timeless ballad.
Edel Temple, Finn Valley’s teacher who submitted the entry said it was an “amazing” opportunity.
“Myself and my son are huge Ed fans and my son constantly puts on concerts singing Ed Sheeran songs with his guitar.
“In Finn Valley College, I am lucky to bear witness to the most magical students; this is what I thought of when I saw the post.
“This was our moment to show off their magic as it would be a chance in a million for our students – so I sent in an application to take part,” she said.
Asking her colleague Tina Garry for help, they got to work on the planning process.
“She, with the brilliant brains of our Transition Year students, wrote the pitch for the competition, devising the concept, planning the shot types and compiling a list of props to complement the narrative and music,” Edel said.
“The Romeo & Juliet theme, where an unrequited teenage crush was harboured by two friends, was something our pupils were keen to explore.
“A love for drama and literature in a school setting was popular as we knew love and school were things that could be related to by so many people.
“Plus it suited the lyrics and melody of the beautiful song,” she said.
With students and staff coming together for the production, Edel thanks Dave Carroll, Evan Barry, Finn Rankin and Siobhan McGinley for putting the pieces of the puzzle together creatively as well as her colleagues in Finn Valley College for their support and understanding.
“And the stars of the show, our pupils, we are so proud of how they rose to the challenge!
“Words cannot express how proud we are every single day of the school and the pupils.
“I hope the magic of Finn Valley College is clear to the world and we are forever grateful to Ed and his team for making young dreams come true and for giving our pupils the chance to take part in something so exciting,” she said.
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