My BTEC National Diploma

During my time on the BTEC National Diploma course I have been free to express myself throughout, by way of such media formats as New Journalism, Narrative Construction, Conceptual Photography, Radio Production, Film Production, and working on Multi-Camera Productions to name but a few.
See the link list for a good example of a music video I produced as part of the course from scratch. This was completed using 3 members of cast/crew and a budget of £3.70 for the bottle of cider:

SEE LINK LIST : College Music Video

Also, I feel that my written work has progressed in leaps and bounds since starting the course. This is most apparent in some of my New Journalism pieces. For Example:

Exert from "Debbie's First Day Of Big School" by Ben Southwood:

"A couple of weeks before the start of term, Debbie was dragged uniform shopping with her Mother. Together they navigated the many cold, clean lines until eventually Debbie happened upon the required uniform; a Navy-blue skirt, Blue Blouse, Gold & Yellow tie, Blue jumper, and a Navy-blue girls bowler-hat. Debbie was not a vision of happiness after learning of this attire. She was also to carry a briefcase with her to school, which she was not the least bit comfortable with. She would have rather taken a rucksack, but these were frowned upon in this particular grammar school. This only made Debbie feel even more common and uneasy with the prospect of going to such a harsh and unwelcoming new grammar school."

Here is also an example of the kind of conceptual photography we did at the very start of the college course:


Overall I feel that the course has not only inspired me to think more conceptually, but has given me a greater understanding of the creative industries.

Work Related Skills

Since leaving school I have been employed in a range of working environments. This has given me the chance to develop a wide range of work related skills. My most recent role has given me the opportunity to build on my already proficient people skills, and the ability to approach any situation with a smile. I am numerate and have a good working knowledge of information technology, both PCs and MACs. Upon returning to college I have gained experience using a number of pieces of software including:

Quark Xpress
Pinnacle Liquid 6 / Avid Liquid 7
Adobe Audition
The full Microsoft Office Package
Photoshop
iMovie
Firefox
Windows OS
MAC OS

I have also greatly extended my Hardware knowledge, including many of the compatibility issues raised by some formats. I am proficient on many types of professional hardware such as professional video camera, HD Photography, Mixing desks and more.

I have developed many work related skills such as effective team-work, time management and self-motivation. I try to be self aware and am able to identify my own training needs. I actively enjoy learning new skills and take concepts on-board easily. I can also understand and speak French to a reasonable level.

About Me

I would describe myself as a well-presented, enthusiastic and reliable person.
I am very adaptable and a natural communicator. I feel that I can fit well into new working environments, tending to quickly form good working relationships with colleagues. I am industrious and conscientious, and I approach all tasks with dedication and commitment. I have good organisational skills which enable me to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines. I am self-motivated and can work under minimal supervision. I am able to work under pressure and have the confidence to be able to make sometimes difficult and independent decisions. I see myself as pro-active; I try to resolve potential problems at source. I am a loyal, honest person and am always prepared to take responsibility for my actions.

I’ve always enjoyed music and the arts, music being my main leisure interest. I enjoy socialising, both with my friends and by meeting new people. I enjoy traveling, both in the UK and abroad. I am also a member of the local gym and pool hall.