CREATIVE DEPARTMENT AT:
2025 2026
A look back at what our students were up to last academic year...
MEDIA M
P u a k e Professional Beauty North
In September Students from Media Make-Up had the exciting opportunity to attend Professional Beauty North 2025, the North's leading event for beauty, spa and nail professionals, held at Manchester Central. The event brought together salon owners, spa professionals, beauty therapists, nail technicians and aestheticians from across the region, giving students the chance to explore the latest products, treatments and industry innovations. With access to leading brands and a range of free educational sessions, the visit provided an inspiring experience, enabling students to expand their industry knowledge, discover emerging trends, develop professional networks and gain valuable insight into future career opportunities within the beauty industry.
Vogue Fashion Experience Learners gained valuable insight into the creative processes behind fashion and editorial make-up, exploring how professionals work within fast-paced industry environments. The experience inspired students while providing a greater understanding of career opportunities within the fashion and beauty industries.
Future Skills @ MediaCityUK, Dakota Avenue M50 2PU 0161 631 5431
Stephen.Bewick@salfordcc.ac.uk
A look back at what our students were up to last academic year...
MEDIA M
P u a k e
CONT’D.
Our Level 3 Media Make-Up students had the exciting opportunity to take part in a bespoke backstage tour of the Dock10 studios and specialist make-up facilities. During the visit, students were set a live industry brief and were given access to the professional make-up studios to complete their work. Their creations were then judged by industry professionals, with awards presented for first, second and third place. This valuable experience helped students gain first-hand insight into working within a professional studio environment, breaking down barriers and building confidence through increased familiarity with the facilities and staff, while also raising aspirations for future careers in the industry.
Children In Need Community Project Learners used their practical skills to support charitable events, developing confidence while engaging positively with the wider community. Students said the experience taught them how to work quickly under pressure.
Future Skills @ MediaCityUK, Dakota Avenue M50 2PU 0161 631 5431
Stephen.Bewick@salfordcc.ac.uk
A look back at what our students were up to last academic year...
MEDIA MEDIAP
u e M a k CONT’D. Watersprite Hubs Transferable Skills Day
Students had the exciting opportunity to take part in the Watersprite Hub Transferable Skills Day, delivered by a charity dedicated to supporting emerging filmmakers from around the world. As part of a free Film and TV training weekend in Manchester, the event provided vocational learners from across Greater Manchester, including Hair and Beauty students, with the unique opportunity to learn directly from industry professionals. The experience offered valuable insight into careers within the film and television industry while helping students develop transferable skills and broaden their understanding of creative career pathways.
Future Skills @ MediaCityUK, Dakota Avenue M50 2PU 0161 631 5431
Stephen.Bewick@salfordcc.ac.uk
A look back at what our students were up to last academic year...
MEDIA MEDIAP
u e k M a CONT’D.
Abdullah Khan Media Makeup Student Future Skills Star Student
Future Skills @ MediaCityUK, Dakota Avenue M50 2PU 0161 631 5431
Stephen.Bewick@salfordcc.ac.uk
A look back at what our students were up to last academic year...
MEDIA MEDIAP
u e M a k CONT’D. Special Mention: Abdullah Khan
Abdullah Khan (L3 Media Make-Up) has consistently demonstrated exceptional creativity and talent, developing a distinctive artistic style that is clearly reflected throughout his portfolio and social media presence. His work showcases advanced technical skills, originality and a strong understanding of current industry trends, particularly within editorial and special effects make-up. Abdullah's passion and dedication to the craft have enabled him to build an impressive professional portfolio beyond the classroom, gaining recognition for his innovative designs and creative concepts. This year, Abdullah was awarded a place on the fully funded BFI Film Academy short course in Hair and Make-Up at the London Screen Academy. This prestigious programme was designed for young people aspiring to develop their practical skills for careers in television and film. As part of the opportunity, the organisation funded Abdullah's travel and accommodation, allowing him to gain invaluable industry experience and further enhance his professional skills. Abdullah has also represented FutureSkills at a national level, competing in the Association of Hairdressers and Therapists (AHT) National Finals in Blackpool in the Editorial Fashion Magazine Make-Up category. Competing against talented students from across the country, Abdullah showcased both his technical expertise and creative flair, demonstrating the high standard of work produced within the Media Make-Up department. In addition, Abdullah applied for the casting of the BBC Three series Glow Up. Abdullah continues to inspire both staff and peers with his creativity, professionalism and determination to pursue a successful career in the creative arts. To see more of Abdullah's outstanding work and creative journey, follow him on Instagram at @ak_specialeffects. Abdullah has accepted a Leeds University offer studying Creative Hair and Media Makeup (Film and TV Prosthetics).
Future Skills @ MediaCityUK, Dakota Avenue M50 2PU 0161 631 5431
Stephen.Bewick@salfordcc.ac.uk
CREATIVE DEPARTMENT AT:
2025 2026
A look back at what our students were up to last academic year...
I V T A E R C
E
A I D E M &
A L J O U R N
I S M
Waterfall: Next Wave Squad
Award winning creative agency Waterfall reached out to us last summer looking to offer industry-like work experience to a group of media and journalism students. In October they delivered two sessions to promote this work experience programme with interested students invited to apply. Soon after, 24 students were accepted onto the ‘Next Wave Squad’. The next wave squad enjoyed 3 sessions off-site in creative environments including Waterfall HQ, the Content Studio and Hot House in Media City. At each session they were given live briefs to work on in small groups; session one to record vox-pops on their next moves post-college and discussions on brands they admired. Session two, a marketing brief where groups planned and presented a campaign to help the Uni of Salford recruit students to their creative courses. Session three, students in their groups planned and recorded podcast pilot episodes aimed at 1618 year olds who are considering their future. There were homework tasks in-between sessions, getting students creative with photography and videography as well as designing one-page profiles. Students said the sessions were engaging, and they developed skills like teamwork, planning and presenting.
Future Skills @ MediaCityUK, Dakota Avenue M50 2PU 0161 631 5431
Stephen.Bewick@salfordcc.ac.uk
A look back at what our students were up to last academic year...
I V T A E R C
E
A I D E M &
A L J O U R N
I S M
Happy Radio Talk & Live Brief
Media students recently welcomed Darren and Siobhan from Happy Radio, who delivered an insightful industry talk designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and the realities of working in today's fast-paced media landscape. The session provided students with valuable first-hand experience and highlighted the importance of key employability skills, including communication, adaptability, creativity and digital literacy. Students gained a deeper understanding of current industry expectations, particularly in areas such as content creation, social media management, audience engagement, teamwork and broadcasting. By engaging directly with experienced professionals, students were inspired to explore future career opportunities while developing a greater awareness of the skills needed to succeed in the modern media industry.
Sam Teale Productions Media students were inspired by guest speaker Sam Teale, who delivered an engaging talk to four Media groups, sharing his journey into the creative industries. Sam spoke about the importance of taking initiative, highlighting how he organised his own work experience with Huddersfield Town while still at school, creating matchday content and gaining valuable industry experience. He also discussed establishing his own production company in 2020 and encouraged students to put themselves out there, embrace opportunities and take control of their own career paths. His story provided students with valuable insight into the determination, creativity and resilience needed to succeed in the media industry.
Future Skills @ MediaCityUK, Dakota Avenue M50 2PU 0161 631 5431
Stephen.Bewick@salfordcc.ac.uk
A look back at what our students were up to last academic year...
I V T A E R C
E
A I D E M &
A L J O U R N
I S M
ITV : Access All Areas
In November, our Level 2 Media students got the fantastic experience of an Access All Areas 2-day programme with ITV Academy. On day one we headed to Coronation Street Studios where we got a quick intro and warm-up before heading on the tour of the exhibition. Students heard from the brilliant Production Design team, toured the sets and studios, and even got to watch a live scene being filmed for Christmas! The afternoon at Orange Tower we got valuable insights into careers in TV followed by an engaging session with Exec Producer Barry Hart. On day two the ITV Commercial team shared insights into sponsorship and advertising before students took part in hands-on brand marketing tasks. They then got to see a live news and weather report before stepping up to the green-screen for some ad-lib preseting of their own! Later the group got to tour and hear from post-production company Active Pixel, hearing about the full service they offer clients. Two unbelievable days and when students turn 18 they can apply for placements in an area of their interest!
BBC Insight Day In October around 50 Media and Journalism students got to visit Quay House to learn about career pathways at the BBC. There they heard from an inspiring panel chaired by the Head of Audience Engagement, received a tour of the TV studios and galleries including Newsround and the BBC sport green screen space, observed BBC radio Manchester and saw how teams are digitising and preserving archive content. Also students worked in groups with BBC staff generating ideas, developing one of those into a concept and pitching it Dragon Den’s style to a panel. Their ideas and presentations were fantastic, and like the show the judges had to take a moment at the back of the room!
Future Skills @ MediaCityUK, Dakota Avenue M50 2PU 0161 631 5431
Stephen.Bewick@salfordcc.ac.uk
A look back at what our students were up to last academic year...
V I T A E C R
E
A I D ME &
J O U R N
A L I S M
CONT’D.
Hits Radio - LIVE Media students recently took part in an exciting creative writing for radio workshop delivered by staff from Bauer Media. The day began with a tour of the Manchester studios, giving students an insight into the professional broadcasting environment. Students then explored how to create engaging and effective radio content before attending a second session focused on responding to a client brief. Using the client's key messages, students developed and wrote their own radio scripts, which they then had the opportunity to record in the studio, providing a valuable hands-on experience of working in the radio industry.
Virtuware VR App - Filming In November, four Media students had the exciting opportunity to work with MediaCity-based VR company Virtuware, supporting the filming of a promotional video for the latest update of their app, StageTime. Prior to the shoot, students were provided with a professional storyboard to prepare for the production. On the day, they took on a variety of roles both in front of and behind the camera, gaining valuable hands-on experience and insight into working within a professional production environment.
Future Skills @ MediaCityUK, Dakota Avenue M50 2PU 0161 631 5431
Stephen.Bewick@salfordcc.ac.uk
A look back at what our students were up to last academic year...
I V T A E R C
E
A I D E M &
J O U R N
A L I S M
CONT’D.
Ibrahim Hamid Media Student Future Skills Star Student
Future Skills @ MediaCityUK, Dakota Avenue M50 2PU 0161 631 5431
Stephen.Bewick@salfordcc.ac.uk
A look back at what our students were up to last academic year...
E V I T A C R E
A I D E M &
A L J O U R N
I S M
CONT’D.
Special Mention: Ibrahim Hamid Media and Journalism Student of the Year Ibrahim Hamid is a truly deserving recipient of the Media and Journalism Student of the Year award, consistently demonstrating exceptional dedication, resilience and ambition throughout his Creative Media Practice studies. He has continually gone above and beyond to ensure his success, investing significant additional time into developing his technical skills, refining his creative ideas and responding thoughtfully to feedback in order to enhance the quality of his work. One of Ibrahim's standout achievements has been the production of his documentary project, which showcased not only his technical ability across filming and editing, but also his creativity, storytelling skills and sensitivity when exploring meaningful subject matter. The documentary demonstrated a high level of professionalism and reflected his ability to engage audiences through compelling and thought-provoking content. What makes Ibrahim's achievements even more remarkable is the determination he has shown in overcoming barriers to education. Rather than allowing challenges to limit his potential, he has used them as motivation to push himself further, remaining focused on his long-term aspirations within the creative industries. His progress throughout the course has been outstanding, reflecting not only his growing creative confidence but also his maturity, professionalism and commitment to achieving his goals. Ibrahim embodies the true spirit of this award through his perseverance, strong academic and creative performance, and unwavering commitment to both personal and professional development. He has been an invaluable member of the department and is undoubtedly a student with an exciting future ahead in the media industry.
Future Skills @ MediaCityUK, Dakota Avenue M50 2PU 0161 631 5431
Stephen.Bewick@salfordcc.ac.uk
CREATIVE DEPARTMENT AT:
2025 2026
A look back at what our students were up to last academic year...
C R
I V T A E
E
C MUSI DBS Institute Trip On 3 June 2026, Music students had the opportunity to visit DBS, where they were welcomed by the Recruitment Officer for an informative and engaging day. Students received a guided tour of the campus, explored course opportunities and took part in a Q&A session to learn more about progression routes within the music industry. The visit also included a series of hands-on workshops, a Dolby demonstration and a professional studio session, providing students with valuable insight into industry-standard facilities and practices.
Beyond The Music - Inspire On 2 October 2025, music students had the opportunity to attend Beyond The Music: Inspire, an exciting industry event designed for 16–25-year-olds interested in pursuing a career in music. The event offered inspiring talks, behindthe-scenes insights and valuable networking opportunities, giving students a unique insight into the music industry and helping them take their next steps towards future careers. Supported by Oasis’ management team and an independent record company, the experience provided students with invaluable industry knowledge and inspiration.
Future Skills @ MediaCityUK, Dakota Avenue M50 2PU 0161 631 5431
Stephen.Bewick@salfordcc.ac.uk
A look back at what our students were up to last academic year...
C R
I V T A E
E
C MUSI ’D. T N O C Kendal College Takeover (Visit) Following Kendal College's successful Open Mic takeover at FutureSkills in December, our Level 3 Music students visited Kendal College on 10 February 2026 to take part in a reciprocal event. The visit provided students with the opportunity to further strengthen the professional relationships established during the initial collaboration, while showcasing their talents through live performances to Kendal College staff and students. This exciting experience will continue to develop students' confidence, performance skills and industry networking opportunities.
Academy of Live Technology In January, Level 3 Music and Games students visited ALT, where they took part in an interactive campus tour and engaging workshop. The visit provided students with valuable insight into the wide range of opportunities available within the creative industries, including undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, short courses and bespoke training programmes. Students also learned about ALT's strong industry links within the live events and creative sectors, helping them to explore potential future career and progression pathways.
Future Skills @ MediaCityUK, Dakota Avenue M50 2PU 0161 631 5431
Stephen.Bewick@salfordcc.ac.uk
Images courtesy of Blake & Kayden (Instagram: parallax_visuals_)
A look back at what our students were up to last academic year...
C R
I V T A E
E
C MUSI PERFORMANCE SHOWCASES Throughout the academic year our music students get to showcase their talent hosting and performing events on-campus in our performance space as well as our ‘FS26’ end of year show at the iconic Band on the Wall, Manchester. Highlights included Loud & Proud, celebrating LGBTQ+ History Month with our students performing original pieces and music by influencial LGBTQ+ artists. Photos by alumni Future Skills Media students Kayden Thomas and Blake Leadbetter. You can see more of their work here: Instagram: parallax_visuals_
Future Skills @ MediaCityUK, Dakota Avenue M50 2PU 0161 631 5431
Stephen.Bewick@salfordcc.ac.uk
Images courtesy of Ben Roberts (Instagram: _br_photographs)
A look back at what our students were up to last academic year...
C R
I V T A E
E
C MUSI ’D. T N O C
Rufus Neary-Taggart Music Student Future Skills Star Student
Future Skills @ MediaCityUK, Dakota Avenue M50 2PU 0161 631 5431
Stephen.Bewick@salfordcc.ac.uk
A look back at what our students were up to last academic year...
C R
I V T A E
E
C MUSI ’D. T N O C
Special Mention: Rufus Neary-Taggart Music Student of the Year Rufus Neary-Taggart is a truly deserving recipient of the Music Student of the Year award, consistently demonstrating exceptional talent, dedication and professionalism throughout his time at FutureSkills. Rufus has approached every aspect of his studies with enthusiasm and determination, continually striving to develop both his technical and creative abilities. As a musician, Rufus has shown outstanding commitment to refining his craft, embracing feedback positively and using it to strengthen his performances and musical projects. His passion for music is evident in the high standard of work he consistently produces, as well as in his willingness to challenge himself creatively and explore new ideas. Beyond his academic achievements, Rufus has been a positive and valued member of the Music department, demonstrating maturity, reliability and a strong work ethic. He has supported his peers, contributed positively to the learning environment and represented FutureSkills with professionalism at all times. Rufus embodies the values of FutureSkills through his perseverance, creativity and ambition. His dedication to personal and professional development makes him an outstanding role model for others and a highly deserving recipient of the Music Student of the Year award.
Future Skills @ MediaCityUK, Dakota Avenue M50 2PU 0161 631 5431
Stephen.Bewick@salfordcc.ac.uk
CREATIVE DEPARTMENT AT:
WHAT WILL 26/27 BRING?
Can you support our students this forthcoming academic year?
Reach out today to discuss any of the below: Work Experience Live Briefs Workplace Safaris Industry Talks Employability Workshops Early Careers Opportunities Skills Gaps Mentoring
Future Skills @ MediaCityUK, Dakota Avenue M50 2PU 0161 631 5431
Stephen.Bewick@salfordcc.ac.uk