Bath College students trained to host and run workshops at TEDxYouth@Bath

Students studying performing arts, international business and media are getting ready to welcome 900 young people to TEDxYouth@Bath.  

TEDxYouth@Bath is a one-day event aiming to spark conversation and spread debate through inspirational speakers and workshops.  

The students, from Bath College, will be helping to host the event and run workshops in the lunchtime break.  

TEDxYouth@Bath is one of the first organisations to partner with the college after the launch of the Bath College Academy of Business.  

The Academy of Business was launched in September to give students valuable industry experience, and in turn, boost the South West economy.  

Students will work alongside 20 inspirational speakers at TEDxYouth@Bath, including BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner.  

At the workshops, they will be encouraging people to get involved by testing a vlogging booth, creating cartoons and writing a postcard (to be sent to yourself in a year’s time).  

Volunteer coordinators Charlotte Calkin and Julian Hussey are working with students to pass on their advice and train them to run the activities.  

Recently, students took part in a presentation skills workshop with Charlotte, a communications expert and executive coach.  

The group will also be working with live event specialists Judgeday, the team behind the Cornbury Music Festival and Womad.  

Media students are getting involved by helping technical organiser Cathleen Lynott with the slideshows, sound and lighting.  

Volunteer coordinator Julian Hussey said: “Every year we run our TEDx event, we try to involve more young people in making it happen.  

“This collaboration with Bath College’s Academy of Business has given us a brilliant cohort of young volunteers who are not only critical to engaging their peers in the event but are learning so much in the process.”  

Jon Domaille, Head of Department for Business, Music, Media and Performing Arts, said: “Whether you’re a performer or working within a business environment, the ability to communicate, be confidence, think on your feet and engage with an audience are all vital skills.  

“This is why this project is so exciting and valuable for our students. It will provide them with the perfect opportunity to develop important employability skills and put these to the test in a live scenario.  

“It’s been amazing watching the students working with TEDx in preparation for the event. They are taking a tremendous amount from the whole experience.”

TEDxYouth@Bath takes place on Thursday November 17 at The Bath Forum. Visit: www.tedxyouthbath.com