Foster children from a Kent project have enjoyed learning from the best after attending an acting workshop at Pinewood Studios with Barry Keoghan.

The youngsters from The Hazel Project in London Road, Sittingbourne acted out scenes, received direction from the Saltburn star and even tried their hand behind the camera as part of the workshop set up by the star.

Having been in care himself, the actor set up the event to give something back to the community which helped him, and show children nothing is out of their reach despite their difficult start in life.

A spokesman for the project said: “We are incredibly grateful for the kindness and generosity that Barry showed our children.

“The impact the time he spent with them has had on their confidence and the growth in their aspirations is already undeniable. He was absolutely wonderful with them.

“Because they were aware that Barry was in care and that he is now such a successful star, they now know that they can achieve whatever they set out for in life, which is the most priceless gift that he could have given them.

“We were so proud to see how enthusiastically our children joined in, stepping out of their comfort zones and performing confidently.

“Barry helped them with their lines and gave acting tips and encouragement throughout their performances.”

They were also given the opportunity to work behind the scenes, with the help of Actors Studio, operating the cameras and being sound technicians, directors and make-up technicians.

They were also given a tour of the acting studios and were allowed to handle props from Marvel films including Ironman’s mask, Thor’s hammer and Captain America’s shield.

Barry – who filmed scenes in Gravesend for a recent movie - has long voiced his desire to show kids in care there are pathways for them in the film industry and inspire them to reach for their dreams.

One of the children said: “It was good to meet Barry, having the same sort of upbringing like me made me realise that you can do anything you put your mind to.”

While another added: “I learnt that no matter where you come from, you can always do something big in this world.”