Digital film company supports local college students

A digital production company in Oxford is offering training to students from the local FE college.

Bounce Video, which is run by former BBC Producer/Director, Grace Gibbons, is working in partnership with the local college of further education to offer film production experience to students aged 16-18 from the college’s Digital Media Pathways BTEC course.

Students will also be offered training in CV and cover letter writing skills and advice on how to seek work in the industry.

17-year-old student Imogen Taberner is half way though her 30-hour placement with the company and has attended two shoots at Exeter College and Oxford science innovation company, SpyBiotech.

Imogen said ‘I’ve learnt about setting up equipment and lighting and the importance of blocking out background noise in interviews.  My favourite part so far was when I got to see a professional drone operator at work. It was really new to me and quite exciting.  I was also given a camera and asked to take production photos, which I really enjoyed.

The experience has helped me learn more about how filming works and gain experience of being on set’.

Grace Gibbons from Bounce Video said ‘I’ve been really impressed by how Imogen has applied herself to this opportunity, it’s been a pleasure to support someone entering the industry.

Media and TV work experience opportunities are hard to find, and often it’s about having a personal contact.  When I was 17, I was lucky enough to get work experience at Channel 4 through a friend, it was a huge stepping stone, which helped me get onto a leading Broadcasting degree programme. 

I feel strongly that all young people should be able to have these kinds of opportunities so I’m very pleased to have established this link with The City of Oxford College.’

Iain Landles, Director of Career Pathways, Creative Arts at The City of Oxford College says:

‘The opportunity for our students to work with a professional company has been outstanding.  Bounce Video is one of those rare companies that works at the cutting edge of the film industry, but also wants to train and help the next generation.  City of Oxford College is very fortunate to have such a partner.’

For further information about Bounce Video visit www.bouncevideo.co.uk or follow @bouncevideo on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram.