BBC and Birmingham City University announce 10-year partnership to develop next generation of media professionals

The BBC and Birmingham City University (BCU) have today announced a strategic partnership to equip the next generation of media professionals with the practical skills and industry experience needed to succeed in the UK's rapidly evolving creative industries.

The 10-year collaboration will 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 approval and landlord’s approvals, BCU will lease space within the Tea Factory and create state-of-the-art training facilities built to BBC specifications. These will include sector leading hi-tech studios, workshops, teaching rooms and breakout areas.

Students will benefit from learning environments designed around current industry standards and practices, while the BBC will gain access to 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 will demonstrate the impact that can be achieved when industry and higher education work together to prepare students for successful careers in the creative sector.

To enhance employability and provide students with direct access to industry expertise, the BBC will contribute to workshops, shadowing opportunities, masterclasses and live industry briefs, as well as lectures.

The project supports the BBC’s Across the UK strategy, which aims to stimulate creative growth beyond London, develop local talent pipelines and strengthen creative economies across the UK.

It directly advances BCU’s Strategy for 2030 and Beyond, which commits the University to developing talent for tomorrow, powering regional prosperity and acting as an exemplar anchor institution and creative partner of choice for industry.

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, said: “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.

“This collaboration brings our ambition to develop the talent of tomorrow and drive prosperity across our city and region to life. It reflects our passion for the creative industries and our pride in Birmingham and the West Midlands. For our students, it opens the door to opportunities that can shape their careers and help build the future of the sector.”

Pictured: The Tea Factory (credits: Stoford)