Case Study – Widening Participation through Skills

Paul Wells has been looking for a new direction in his career, and thanks to a free taster session, it looks like he’s found one.  The session which was funded by the European Social Fund, is a part of the “Widening Participation” project.  The project aims to increase participation in Higher Level Skills training for people in Cornwal and the Isles of Scilly.

Paul attended the Access to Creative Media and Photography one-day workshop.  The course is being delivered by project partner Truro and Penwith College.  The college designed the course in response to industry demand.  Digital skills are increasingly important for business especially those with an online presence.  Capturing the attention of your audience when having to compete with a growing number of creative approaches is increasingly difficult.  Therefore, developing the skills to be the best are increasingly important.

Using existing skills

Reflecting on his existing skills and interests which has included some photography within his previous job, Paul saw the taster session as a risk free way of exploring his options.  He said, “I’ve relocated and now I’m keen to find a career doing something I love.  I have worked in the food industry and have done some photography of the food we were producing.  It was an enjoyable and creative part of my role and is something I want to explore further.”

During the taster session where Paul was joined by others in a similar situation on the course, the group got the chance to take part in a studio photoshoot.  Working in the purpose made facilities with state of the art equipment proved to be an inspiring experience.  The group also got the chance to meet with course lectures and learn about how they were using their skills in their career.  This included a talk on the use of video to communicate a complicated marine biology research project which was filmed on location on the island of Mauritius.

At the end of the day Paul reflected on his experience, “I’m interested in moving into freelance photography and being self-employed.  There are some great opportunities and the staff and students on this course has shown me, it’s very exciting.”

Widening Participation through Skills – More Information

If you want to explore a new career and a taster session in Higher Level Skills training, have a look at the forthcoming events –

www.truro-penwith.ac.uk/events

email – charlis@truro-penwith.ac.uk