Day the BBC came to create media moguls

CAMERA, ACTION . . . Pupils get their creative caps on as they prepare to enter the competitive world of media

PUPILS from Schools across Oldham transformed themselves into media moguls for an action-packed day.

Eighty students met up with ambassadors from the University of Huddersfield for a BBC pathways into the Media Outreach Programme, which gives youngsters an insight into the exciting world of media.

Pupils attended four sessions with BBC representatives providing information about production management, production, journalism and new media.

After they had mastered the basics, eight groups of 10 each devised a story for a TV show.

They allocated budgets, specified locations and brought together an overall synopsis.

Each group then had the daunting task of pitching to a panel of BBC professionals.

Debbie Bridge, of the University Centre Oldham, where the event was held, said: “It is fantastic to be able to follow up the recent opening of university studios with a prestigious event with the BBC.

“The University Centre Oldham offers great opportunities for young people.”

Young Oldhamers could be set for big opportunities as the new MediaCityUK in Salford will be home to around 2,400 BBC staff.

BBC children’s channels, formal learning, future media and technology, sport and Radio Five Live are among the departments set to call it home.

A spokesman for the University Centre Oldham said: “Workshops such as the Pathways into Media will help identify new talent and develop clear pathways into the BBC and wider industry.”