Access to Higher Education students use mentorship programme to plan their future careers

Access to Higher Education: English, Writing, and Media students at UCEN Manchester got the chance to take part in a week-long mentorship programme, during which they created, promoted and directed three short plays, which were performed to an audience of over 200 people alongside trained actors.

The students, who had no prior experience in the industry, were invited to participate in the Breakthrough programme, organised by staff at 53two, a theatre and creative hub based on Deansgate in Manchester city centre.

The free mentorship aimed to give every participant a real-world insight into their chosen creative discipline, allowing them to build connections and showcase their potential to local industry professionals.

Students Matthew Young and Jordan Banks chose to take responsibility for promoting the short plays and produced a variety of marketing materials.

Matthew said: “I have developed some useful skills throughout this experience and was able to get out of my comfort zone with amazing support from the staff and the other teams!”

Jordan added: “I really enjoyed myself and I feel like I’ve learnt loads!”

Another student, Ashley Pagnini, chose directing as her specialism and got the chance to direct a short play called 'Forget Me Not'.  Ashley also loved the experience, saying: “It was great having access to new roles and departments that I had not seen before, such as lighting.”

As part of the programme, Ashley then published theatre reviews for the ILoveMcr website and added: “I have loved the opportunity to see plays I would not normally see and be able to improve my writing.”

Michelle Tocher, Curriculum Director for Access to Higher Education at UCEN Manchester, said: "Developing these industry connections is a key element of this course, and this was an experience for our learners that they'll look back on with fondness as they make the next steps in their education and careers."

Glenn Meads, Access to Higher Education Lecturer, added: “My tutor at college gave me an opportunity to work for a local newspaper, and this opened up so many doors for me. I'm now a freelance journalist and reviews editor at ILoveMcr alongside my teaching role, meaning I have developed some great contacts at places like 53two. Providing opportunities for students means I get the chance to pay that kindness forward.”

UCEN Manchester’s Access to HE Diplomas are ideal for those wanting to start a journey into higher education. Click here for more information.