Students from HSDC South Downs recently returned from an inspiring and industry-focused trip to Disneyland Paris, reinforcing the College’s commitment to aspiration, ambitious pathways and education with a clear destination.
The multi-day visit brought together learners from Games Design, Media, Film & TV and Art, to attend a specialist media conference hosted by The Walt Disney Company. Learners heard from industry experts such as Jonathon Stephens, a leading media education professional, Lisa Campbell, Communications Director at ITN and Nick Webb, Partnership Manager at Disney.
Each of these professionals shared insights from their career journeys with HSDC’s students, as well as information surrounding current industry standards and the expectations of employers operating at the highest level of the creative industries.
The conference provided a rare opportunity for students from different vocational disciplines to learn alongside one another, reflecting the collaborative nature of modern media production. By situating learning within a real-world professional environment, the experience reinforced how classroom skills translate into viable and ambitious career pathways.
Across the visit, these students were able to develop professional communication skills, technical and sector awareness of media production, confidence, independence and the behaviours expected in the workplace. These experiences clearly mirror the expectations that these students will meet when applying for employment, apprenticeships or higher level study.
It wasn’t all work and no play, though – with these students also having the opportunity to explore the park and visit some of the rides that Disneyland Paris is famous for!
Following the visit, students returned with renewed focus towards their futures, including university, higher-level vocational study or employment within relevant sectors.
Calum Teeling is a Games Design lecturer who accompanied the students on the trip. Speaking about the importance of trips like this, Calum said:
“The Disneyland Paris Media trip was an unforgettable experience, bringing together students from various disciplines for an immersive industry conference. Beyond the magic of the parks, our students gained invaluable insights from seasoned professionals who shared ‘behind-the-scenes’ stories and real-world perspectives on navigating the modern media landscape.”
By working closely with employers, embedding professional standards into teaching and creating transformative experiences beyond the classroom – HSDC continues to prepare students not just to succeed in their education, but to thrive in future careers.