Media & Photographic Success Stories
REAL results REAL success stories
Scott James
BTEC National Diploma in Photography
Scott wanted to study a subject at college that would enable him to get a career and be creative at the same time.
“At school I was always good at art and other creative subjects and photography had always been of interest to me so the BTEC seemed like a good option. The course allowed me to really express myself and develop my photography skills in areas which were of particular interest. We learnt all sorts from traditional darkroom practices and studio techniques to modern digital photography and use of software packages - I loved it all. I struggled with using Photoshop to begin with though as I had not had that much experience with computers before college but the lecturers were great and gave me all the support I needed. I am really competent on it now and that will help me at university.”
As Scott progressed through the course he was able to explore the areas of photography he wanted to specialise in. “The lecturers really help you and guide you. It’s all about progression and they continually asked us to think about where we wanted to go in the future. My final major project I based on fashion photography which meant I could go on location and get quite creative with my shots. It was then that I realised I wanted to specialise in advertising as a career – basically anything where I might be able to be a bit inventive. I know that when I start my degree I will be fully equipped purely because of the variation on the course at Northampton College and for that reason I would definitely recommend it to others.”
Scott is now studying at BA Hons in Photography at University Campus Suffolk.
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Ollie Rolph
BTEC First Diploma in Media
Ollie completed his Media course with literally top marks. He was awarded a Distinction* and achieved the maximum amount of points possible on a Level 2 course!
He chose the First Diploma because of the assessment methods. ‘I always knew I wanted to do Media, but I’ve never been very good at exams, so I didn’t want to go down the more formal A Level route and chose this course because it’s highly practical. I’d also looked around the College at an Open Event and was really impressed with the facilities available to learners.’
‘The course covered all aspects of the Media Industry. I particularly liked learning about all the different elements that go into the production of a magazine – it’s amazing how much time and effort it takes.’ Ollie has cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair, but found he did not need any extra help with his learning. ‘I always knew additional support was available if I needed it, but I didn’t.’
During his time at College, Ollie also worked alongside the Additional Support Team mentoring an autistic learner. ‘I find it really rewarding and enjoy helping others. As soon as I finished College in the summer I did some work experience at my old school. I worked as a Learner Support Assistant supporting learners with varying degrees of special needs.’
Ollie has a special word of thanks to his teachers. ‘When I first came to College I lacked a lot of confidence and self-belief. But the teachers are great – they reassure you and make you trust in your own abilities. I think that’s the most valuable thing I’ll take away from my College experience. It was their encouragement, together with my determination to do well, that helped me achieved the grade I did. I couldn’t believe it when I heard – I’m told those marks have never been awarded in the history of the course at college!’
Ollie’s College experience doesn’t end there. He’s returning in September on the National Diploma in Media Production. When it comes to plans after college, Ollie’s not sure ‘I really don’t know what I want to do then I leave. The National Diploma is a two year course, so hopefully at the end of the first year I’ll have a bit more of an idea.
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Jason Bagshaw
BTEC National Certificate in e-Media
Jason excelled on the BTEC National Certificate in e-Media so much so his tutor persuaded him progress onto the Diploma in his second year. Despite the additional workload, he achieved an overall Merit grade and says the course helped him realise his strong points. He wants to use his newfound skills to work in film or TV.
‘I haven’t always wanted a career in e-Media. Like most people I didn’t know what I wanted to do after my GCSEs. I’d considered engineering but ended up enrolling onto an IT programme at college. Unfortunately it wasn’t for me and I was about to leave to get a job when my friend told me about the e-Media course. I’ve discovered something I really enjoy and learnt skills you wouldn’t necessarily associate with e-Media like 3D work, camera angles, lighting and photography.’
Jason thrived on the learning environment at college. ‘It’s a step up from school – a lot more grown-up. You feel like you’re there because you want to be, not because you have to be. My lecturers on the course were the best teachers I’ve ever had, but you still have to be self motivated. I’ve learnt a lot about time management and organisation which will make the transition to Uni much easier.’
Jason has just started a degree in Digital Media and Broadcast at Portsmouth University.