Between 2015 and 2020, employment in the region’s sector grew by 48%. Businesses and Higher Education (HE) are investing to meet future digital skills needs, especially with the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Digital skills are now required in many industries. It's vital that young people in the region explore career options and discover the pathways available to them.
To address future skills needs, Go Higher West Yorkshire (GHWY) and West Yorkshire Combined Authority partnered to host a Go Higher in Digital Media and AI event for Year 12 students from three colleges in the region.
The event took place at Prime Studios in Leeds. It featured a variety of industry specialists, including staff from Leeds Young Film, MetFilm School Leeds, creative studio company Buttercrumble and HE ambassadors.
Over 35 students participated in hands-on workshops led by employers and HE professions. The activities covered digital media careers, essential skills and workplace experience. Students engaged in:
Learner evaluations showed the event’s positive impact on knowledge and understanding of the sector.
It was really good to get practical experience of how it all fits together in a real working space.
Student
The networking opportunity was invaluable and would love to experience more events like this
Student
Post-event, the number of students who understood the skills needed for a career in this sector rose by 48%. Additionally, 77% felt they had the necessary skills relevant to the field.
Employers and academics also noted the event's potential to inspire young people to consider careers in the digital sector.
GHWY and the Combined Authority worked together on a series of Go Higher In events in 2023-24. These events focused on growing sectors like STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), Health and Social Care, digital media, and Green Skills.
Guided by Local Skills Improvement Plans, they provided students with valuable workplace experiences. They also offered insights into progression pathways, employer interactions, and practical skills development.
Moreover, these events highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships and collaboration, aiming to connect careers provision in schools and colleges with local economic needs.
We need to nurture the next generation of talent, as they eventually become our colleagues and employees. The practical skills and guidance shared [at these events] helps to safeguard businesses and careers in the long-term.
Chloe Baldwin
Creativity Conductor at Buttercrumble
These events go beyond just film, offering life skills and transferable skills. They also introduce young people to jobs they didn’t know actually existed.
Debbie Maturi
Director of Leeds Young Film
It is important for young people to be exposed to various roles at an early age so they can navigate a way into the industry.
Ed Swales
Cinematography tutor at MetFilm School
