Theatre and Media Performance initiative honoured at Guardian University Awards 2020

The initiative was nominated in the Employability and Entrepreneurship category. Employability Plus teaches employability skills while exploring wellbeing, identity and selfhood. Students produce creative outputs such as films, devised performances, radio drama and documentaries, all linked to mental health.

The inspired scheme involved more than 150 current students, across all Levels, and across a number of projects; in just one example, 20 students worked on films funded through Creative England, the BFI and the BBC. The films focussed on identity and citizenship and students shadowed professional counterparts on set, working as camera, sound, props, continuity, make-up and postproduction assistants, all gaining a professional screen credit.

The Guardian was impressed that “Progression rates have increased from 85% to 91% since the introduction of the immersive project, while pass rates have also improved. All those involved in the short films who have since graduated found immediate employment in film and TV projects.”

Frances Piper, Project Lead and Director (Media City Directorate) in the School of Arts, Media and Creative Technology, said: “I’m so proud to see our Employability Plus project being honoured at the Guardian Awards 2020.

“Traditionally some of the most creative and inspirational minds are often apprehensive and self-doubting in their ability. Unlike traditional practical courses this programme includes specific activities that allow students to understand their wellbeing.

“This was a huge team effort within the school and I’d like to congratulate everybody involved.”

Read more about Employability Plus on The Guardian.