Britain’s creative economy provides 3.12 million jobs, that’s equivalent to 1 in 11 UK jobs. However, creative subjects are under threat in schools and this will have a huge impact on the new talent within the sector in the future. So how can we, as part of the creative industry, play our part in keeping young talent coming through and inspiring the next generation?
Well, BBC Bitesize the BBC‘s free online study resource for school-age students, facilitated a 3-month school tour. Visiting schools across the UK they are aiming to educate and inspire kids to think about careers in the creative industries and we were thrilled to be part of the panel in two schools in Northumberland.
Sarah, our Co-Founder and Strategy Director was part of the three-person panel representing design and advertising, the other representatives were Sarah Dunn, a film maker from Northumberland and Tom Salmon a presenter on BBC Cumbria’s new music show. Lead by Hugh Woozencroft a sports presenter for the BBC, the panel held an informal and inspiring discussion about roles in the creative sector and their own experiences within the industry.
Speaking about her experience, Sarah said:
“Having talked to kids from 11 up to 15 throughout the day, their inquisitive attitude was refreshing to see. They seemed genuinely interested in exploring creative careers even though it was a very whistlestop introduction to the many possible jobs! We covered digital, tech, design, advertising, TV, film and radio in our session.
It was actually an interesting exercise, to think about how my skills and GCSE’s I did at school have lead to my job today and to listen to the route others took. I was lucky and knew what I wanted to do but for many kids, it’s so early at 15 to think about what they might want to do, it’s important to think about what you enjoy, what your passions are and what you’re good at. If there’s a way to combine these or carry on learning about something you love then this keeps it open yet future-focused.”