North Devon College connects young people with careers in film and television

North Devon College has given around 200 pupils from six North Devon schools a direct line into the film and television industry, bringing them face to face with professionals to show where their education and skills could take them. 

The College’s Film Industry Day, held on Wednesday 30 September in partnership with Film Devon and North Devon Council, put the spotlight on the technical, creative, business and logistical expertise behind every production, and on the career opportunities this growing sector could offer young people in Devon. 

Jon Price, Head of Faculty for Digital, Creative and Business at North Devon College, said: 

“We want our students to have a clear line of sight from what they are learning at college to the careers and industries where those skills can take them. Working directly with industry is absolutely central to that. 

“Our role isn’t simply to deliver qualifications. It’s to understand where opportunities are developing, build relationships with the industries creating them and make sure our students are ready to take advantage of them. 

“Events like this allow our students to learn directly from industry, while our staff build the relationships and knowledge that help keep our curriculum relevant and ambitious.” 

Year 10 pupils heard from professionals whose experience ranges from directing scenes for Star Wars to wildlife photography, visual effects and production finance. They then explored industry zones hosted by the speakers and businesses including Screen Devon, Sony, Wex and Yellow Mouse Animation Studios. North Devon College students took part in a dedicated afternoon programme, and the day closed with a networking event for industry professionals and College staff. 

The event forms part of North Devon Council’s work to grow the area’s cultural economy through film. The council funded transport so pupils from across North Devon could attend. 

Clare China, Place Project Officer for Development and Regeneration at North Devon Council, said: 

“This project is about supporting the growth of North Devon’s cultural economy through film and unlocking the opportunities that the sector can bring to our area. 

“It has been a hugely successful day and a great example of what can be achieved when education, industry and local partners work together to create new opportunities for North Devon.” 

James Francis, Film Devon Ambassador, said: 

“One of the biggest messages we wanted young people to take away from the day is just how many different people and skills are involved in making a production happen. 

“You don’t have to be an actor, director or camera operator to have an exciting career in the screen industries, including animation, gaming, podcasts, music videos, film and television.” 

Young people can find out more about studying digital, creative and business subjects at the College’s Open Event on Tuesday 1 December, 5pm to 7.30pm, which will feature student exhibitions and live performances. Register at ndc.ac.uk/open-events/