From September 2024, Stoke on Trent College will be expanding its T Level offer to cover a broader range of industries, delivering T Levels in 13 subjects.
One of these, T Level in Media, Broadcast and Production is specifically designed for anyone interested in a career in the growing industries of media, marketing, film/TV, animation and visual effects. Ed Walker will be leading this initiative – here’s what he had to say about the exciting new qualification.
What is your role at Stoke on Trent College?
I’m currently in my 3rd year as a Lecturer in Media at Stoke on Trent College.
Prior to this, I worked freelance on music videos, short films, documentaries and live productions and events for various companies before completing teacher training with Staffordshire University in 2019. My industry background gave me a range of diverse experiences, practical insights and real-world examples which I now share with my learners.
I enjoy the thrill and teamwork of live productions and love the opportunity to inspire and guide my own learners as they overcome challenges and come together to realise their creative potential.
What will your involvement be in the delivery of the new T Level programme?
Leading the new Pearson T Level in Media, Broadcast, and Production from September 2024 is an exciting prospect for me. It’s more than just a role; it’s a chance to deliver a cutting-edge qualification which has been designed in collaboration with industry experts.
Drawing from the insights of professionals from the media, broadcast and production industries the content reflects the real-world demands of the industry, giving learners the practical, hands-on experience, skills and knowledge necessary to thrive when they leave us for their next steps – whether that be to employment, an Apprenticeship or University.
What makes the new T Level unique?
The T Level includes over 300 hours of industry placement, carefully structured to provide learners with invaluable exposure to the industry. Through hands-on work and mentoring from industry professionals, learners will gain a deeper understanding of the demands of the industry whilst also being able to support regional business needs.
The first year of the T Level will give our learners the core knowledge that underpins the sector, while the second year gives them the chance to specialise in the field of content creation. As part of this offer, learners will also reap the benefits of our fantastic partnerships with industry.
We are looking forward to continuing our partnership with VCCP, who will deliver their Intercity Student Challenge, giving our learners a taste of working in advertising and creative agencies, while teaching them a host of new skills and offering guidance from established industry professionals who work with large conglomerates such as O2 and Dominoes.
This is in addition to other workshops with the likes of Clive Booth and Canon, giving our learners the insight to develop a project from conception to completion, whilst learning from these esteemed industry leaders.
What facilities will be available to learners?
Not only will learners be able to take advantage of existing resources within our Digital and Creative Hub, they will also have access to a range of brand-new facilities, including state-of-the-art IT suites with industry-standard software like Adobe Creative Cloud and DaVinci Resolve.
We are currently building a cutting-edge TV Studio and Control Room, featuring specialist equipment sourced from industry leaders such as Blackmagic Design, Røde and Rotolight, giving our learners unique opportunities for live broadcasting and virtual production that far exceed your typical Level 3 programmes.
For me, leading the T Level in Media, Broadcast, and Production isn’t just about delivering a qualification; it’s about shaping the future of the industry by nurturing the next generation of talented professionals. And I couldn’t be more excited to be at the helm of this journey.
How can I find out more?
For more information visit the website www.stokecollege.ac.uk/t-levels or come along to one of our Open Events: www.stokecoll.ac.uk/open-events
If you are an employer and are interested in providing T Level placements please visit: www.stokecoll.ac.uk/t-level-placement-opportunities
