Two undergraduate students at Leeds Trinity University are supporting the development of a new television streaming service, Britbox, since gaining two full-time roles at ITV during their final year.
Third year TV production students George Wright and Sam Tuft, have recently started working at ITV as Content Delivery Coordinators for live content and Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD).
They have joined the broadcasting network at an exciting time with Britbox due to launch at the end of the year. The new streaming service - set to rival Netflix - is a collaboration between ITV and the BBC and will host the largest collection of British TV series.
Both students undertook two professional work placements as part of their degree - which they both attribute to gaining their current roles at ITV.
Sam, Content Delivery Coordinator for SVOD said: "It's really exciting to be involved in the Britbox project, but also quite nerve-racking be to in charge of a large amount of content specifically for the new platform. Working alongside industry professionals has helped me to settle in and improve my skills in editing.
"During my first year I did a professional work placement at Trinity Vision, which really developed my versatility as an editor and is crucial for the job I do at ITV. Leeds Trinity stood out due to its reputation for producing highly employable graduates and it's surreal to think that I am now part of that statistic."
George, who completed his professional work placement with ITV's Content Delivery team, added: "Put all of your effort into finding a placement that suits your interests, show enthusiasm and ask lots of questions. Connections are also very important; the lecturers at Leeds Trinity are a great resource and on hand to offer support throughout."
In his current role, George works on live programmes including Good Morning Britain and This Morning. This summer he will be involved in capturing live content for Love Island and the Rugby World Cup in September, which will feature on the ITV Hub.
Glyn Middleton, Senior Lecturer in Broadcast Media at Leeds Trinity University, said:
"I'm thrilled that two of our brightest and best TV Production students have secured themselves jobs in a brilliant department at such a prestigious company - before they've even graduated.
"Leeds Trinity is unique in offering all students two placements with employers during their courses - and this special relationship with media employers has led directly to this success for Sam and George. I'm sure they'll go on to enjoy fantastic careers".
James Macmillan, Technical Operations Manager at ITV, added: "I'm really invested in helping people at the start of their career and it's exciting when you feel like you meet the right people, like Sam and George, who are passionate and eager to learn. We can equip people with the skills they need to carry out the job, but personal qualities such as work ethic, positive outlook and clear and effective communication make a student stand out."
Both students are getting ready to graduate this summer and are completing their dissertations alongside their new full-time roles at ITV.
Find out more about studyingTV Production at Leeds Trinity, and our commitment to providing twoprofessional work placements with every degree.?