Barry Thomas studied at the College between 1994 and 1996 and has since gone on to enjoy an exceptional career directing national television shows including The Victoria Derbyshire Programme, BBC Breakfast, BBC News and now ITV’s This Morning. Mr Thomas said: ‘It’s great to be back at Newark College, where my journey in media began.
“Today marks an exciting new development for the College’s media course, which sees students working on live briefs to direct and deliver their own regular news and magazine show. This is an area I have specialised in throughout my career with the BBC and ITV.
“I hope I can show the next generation of students what they can go on to achieve if they are passionate and work hard. I wish them every success going forward.”
The newly developed Creative Media Production course enables learners to develop their skills in a fast paced, industry type setting that mirrors real life work experience and expectations. Lecturer, Justin Day said: “This is a fresh approach for a course that’s always been centred round practical experience. Now students will have their work published and streamed to an audience.
“They’ll be reporting on news and events from around the College as part of their magazine programme, with the first show airing on our YouTube channel in January. This will be supported by magazine articles, podcasts and more.
“It’s great to see excitement and enthusiasm levels’ building as word gets out about what we’re doing.
“We’re delighted Barry could join us to mark the occasion today. We’re very proud of all that he has accomplished.”
Find out more about the Creative Media Production Course at our next Open Day at Newark College on Tuesday 15th October from 4-7pm.
