So far my experience has been challenging, learning again after years away from education, yet it has been so fulfilling, the photography department is a wonderful hub of activity, students from all The three years cross paths within the week, and are respectful and helpful to each other. We have a fantastic team of tutors who without doubt go above and beyond for all the students. For anybody considering Blackburn college to study the photography course, then I would definitely recommend it. I feel very much a part of my department and I am looking forward to my third year next year.

The facilities at Blackburn college are fantastic. The resources are helpful and saved me a fortune. Student’s have access to free Microsoft Office, which is a necessity with course work. Another Important resource is the student One Drive, this for my photography course in particular is a must to store all work and images safely. The library is helpful too with lovely staff. My photography course requires an up to date studio with relevant equipment to manage our needs, the technical side for post editing our images not only provides two classrooms fitted with computers and relevant software but, Also provides two sound proof post editing suites for regular post editing as well as videography Post editing. We have an equipment room where we can book items out to help us with our practical work, this is always available to us with informed staff to guide us. Our darkroom is perfectly formed and again very flexible on access as we often use this facility out of set hours, we are encouraged to use all facilities for personal projects along side our curriculum commitments. We are fully supported with pastoral, student union and other services within our building.

I could not have had better support, I have had two contrasting academic years, my first year was a fantastic time I did lots of extra things and enjoyed every minute. This year ( my second year) I have unfortunately experienced two Close family losses within months of each other. My main tutor has been a huge support, i have been given time to grieve whilst still encouraged to keep in touch, this was my lifeline and as contributed to me completing this year. I have also been offered counselling if needed. I always find the tutor feedback constructive and consistent. There is always opportunity to discuss any feedback, so there is no misunderstanding.

The tutors are amazing, our course have a fantastic team that communicate effectively to the students and each other. I Have personally enjoyed the how we evaluate our images as a class, this brings a trust and support to the group that is unique of any other course or work place I have experienced. The tutors are available and understand that as a mature student we have life’s and commitments outside of class and try to accommodate. I have only positives to say about the teaching. It has been a wonderful experience so far.

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To support our future employability prospects, Blackburn College have several services in place. Generally, We are given access to advice on where and how to look for a vacancy, using social media to look for a job, How to update a C.V . Our course also has modules implemented to specifically prepare us. We do an industry module in year one, which covers our strength and weakness , diagnostic employability skills, health and safety and insurance On our equipment as well as liability, my second year that I am currently studying, we have had work based learning to complete, including our own evaluation on our experience. We also have a business module that covers creating a professional website For our business and promoting our work. I feel we have been very well informed and encouraged to actively pursue our craft alongside our course. I am confident that I will use my skill within the photography industry on finishing my third year and gaining my degree. We have also had photographers come in and discuss the realities of the industry, we are Taught by experienced photographers so they constantly give their first hand experience. The tutors have a varied expertise in different areas between them, so it’s fortunate to have, to name a few, advertising, commercial, fashion Experience. We have also taken part in voluntary work as a class to gain experience and confidence in the work place.