The BBC has entered into a strategic partnership with Birmingham City University (BCU) to establish a centre for creative skills and learning at the Tea Factory in Digbeth, the BBC’s new Midlands headquarters.
The partnership will support the delivery of a portfolio of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across media, journalism, content creation, production and broadcast technology.
Subject to final planning and landlord’s approvals, BCU will lease space within the Tea Factory and create state-of-the-art training facilities built to BBC specifications, including hi-tech studios.
This will give students access to learning environments designed around current industry standards, said the partners, as well as give the BBC specialist training, studio and technical facilities to support workforce development and skills training.
Designed to help bridge the gap between education and employment, the partnership aims to demonstrate the impact that can be achieved when industry and higher education work together to prepare students for successful careers in the creative sector.
Speaking about the partnership, Simone Marquis, BBC chief talent and inclusion officer, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Birmingham City University to create new opportunities for talented people who aspire to careers in broadcasting, journalism, content creation and media technology.
“At the BBC, we want the future of the creative industries to be shaped by talent from every part of the UK. This landmark partnership reflects our continued commitment to the West Midlands and will help ensure the next generation of creative professionals has the skills, experience and opportunities needed to thrive.”
Professor David Mba, vice-chancellor of Birmingham City University, added: “This is a genuinely unique partnership that reflects who we are as a university. We believe students learn best by doing, and there is no better preparation for the real world than learning your craft on industry-standard technology, alongside one of the world’s most respected broadcasters.
