Question Time Insight for Derby College Students

Media and Politics students from Derby College have been given rare behind the scenes access to BBC’s ‘Question Time’ which was filmed at the iconic Roundhouse.

It was the third time that the producers had brought the popular televised debate to the Roundhouse – which is the centre piece of the College’s Technical and Professional Skills college.

The students met some of the key people who work on the programme.  As well as gaining valuable careers advice, they learnt more about how the programme is made and some of the key roles on the production set.

They were also involved in the rehearsal and sound and camera tests ahead of the filming – seated behind the panel desk which was later occupied by leading politicians and political commentators.

Among the students who benefited from the afternoon was Media student Aiden Hetherton (19) from Derby who is planning to go to university to study editing after College.

He said: “This was an incredible opportunity to meet people who have had fantastic careers in the media.

“They gave us all some great advice on how to break into this industry and it was fascinating to see just how much work and expertise goes into putting such a well-respected and popular television programme on air.”

Debbie Keegan heads up the team at Derby College who coordinate employer partnerships and work placements for students.

She added: “Work placements, visits and guest lectures are integral to everyone’s study programmes.  They are a vital way to broaden young people’s horizons and bring them into contact with the very people that they hope to emulate in the future.

“We have the added benefit that the Roundhouse attracts so many high profile events, visitors and opportunities such as the filming of Question Time so we are often able to combine these with rare access for our students.

“The Question Time production team were brilliant and I’m sure the experience will help to shape the direction of the students’ future education and careers.”