Quays TV Tech Intern hosts 2022 refresh week

University of Salford alumni hosted the 2022 Quays TV refresh week to help students build on their existing skills and learn new ones. Jack McKinnell is the Quays TV Tech Intern and graduated from the university with a Masters in Broadcast Journalism in 2021.  

Jack said: “This is a week that happens yearly and is organised by the Quays TV Tech Intern. I had a look at previous weeks that had been held over the years to help with the planning. I thought it would be beneficial for the students to be able to put the skills they've learnt to the test, so I planned two programmes to be recorded at the end of the week for the students to take part in.”

The sessions throughout the week of January the 24th were led by staff from Technical Services at the Media City campus. The sessions included Q&A’s which were done remotely and director sessions which were done in person to allow access to the equipment.  

Jack said: “The students were able to acquire new skills that they may not have had the opportunity to gain without the week being put on. For example, we had one English Language student take up the camera training class as it was something they wanted to learn but the kit is not something typically used with their course. It was also a chance for students to get familiar with some of the equipment they are going to be using this module.” 

Reporters and directors from the BBC, ITV, and the MEN were involved in the Q&As, which gave students the opportunity to receive advice and make contacts within the industry.  

Daniel McLaughlin, a podcast producer, and journalist said: “As an alumnus of the University of Salford, I did not hesitate when asked to participate in a Q&A for Quays TV. Quays played a massive part in my student life, and I gained invaluable experience from working on all the shows we produced; and I still use many of those skills accrued during my time on Quays TV today.

"I also remember the kindness and wisdom of industry professionals who would visit the MediaCityUK campus, giving their insight into how newsrooms and studios operate. And it felt right that I was able to do this myself after a few years in journalism.

"The students were incredibly engaged and knowledgeable, asking fascinating and brilliant questions about podcasting. It revealed to me that they will thrive in the media environment, having picked up tips on the industry and the technology involved in our day-to-day work.”

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