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Cheltenham sixth former stars in international film

An All Saints' Academy sixth form student makes her feature film debut next week.

Megan Sykes appears in I Swear, a moving re-enactment of the life of John Davidson. The film, shot entirely in Glasgow, will be released in cinemas worldwide on October 10.

Megan plays one of the group members attending John Davidson's support sessions for people with Tourette's Syndrome.

Megan said: "I hope this film will help everyone understand Tourette's truly. I also saw many parallels with my life and John Davidson's experiences. It made me feel like I had a community of people with similar experiences."

Her mother, Patricia Sykes, said: "We are all so proud of Megan. The whole experience has been incredible, and we've met some wonderful people through the making of I Swear.

"It was lovely to see Megan interacting and making new friends on set. The cast and crew were so kind and genuinely interested in learning more about Tourette's and the people who live with it.

"I was lucky enough to see an early preview of the film, and it moved me to tears. I really hope it helps shine a light on the condition, as there is still such a lack of understanding of how challenging it can be. It was also fantastic to see that a third of the cast have Tourette's themselves.

"Throughout Megan's time at All Saints' Academy, she has always been supported with her condition, and that support has made such a positive difference to her journey."

Megan discovered the audition through the Tourette's Action Instagram page. She recorded a self-tape showing her tics while reading the script.

She said: "When I found out I got the part, I was overjoyed and literally jumping for joy."

Megan initially found it challenging to let all her tics out on camera.

She continued: "Luckily, our director Kirk Jones made sure to tell us before every take that it's completely fine to let all your tics out, no one there was judging you."

Behind the scenes, Megan learned from seasoned professionals and shared laughs with well-known actors like Maxine Peake and Robert Aramayo.

Miss Baynham-Williams, director of performing arts at All Saints, said: "We are exceptionally proud of Megan. Her advocacy for inclusivity, her outstanding talent on stage and screen, and her academic achievements this year are testament to her determination and creativity. Megan's debut in I Swear is a truly inspiring moment."

After getting a grade 9 in GCSE drama, Megan is currently studying drama, art and history A Levels at All Saints' Academy sixth form.

Benjamin Williams, All Saints' Academy principal, said: "Megan truly reflects our vision, demonstrating that it is possible for our students to be 'light of the world.' She has used her talents not only to excel academically and creatively, but also to raise awareness and inspire others through her film debut in I Swear.

"We are incredibly proud of Megan sharing her story with courage and using the arts to challenge perceptions and build understanding. She is a true role model for our community and beyond."

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