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In July, 18 students from the college’s Media and Esports courses embarked on an unforgettable international work experience trip to Seville, Spain, a life-changing opportunity made possible through the Turing Scheme. 

Far more than just a study trip, the fortnight-long experience pushed students beyond their comfort zones, fostering independence, resilience and new friendships, all whilst immersing them in a rich cultural and professional environment. 

During the trip, students undertook work experience placements at V-ART School, where they took part in hands-on creative workshops that taught them to use industry-standard software such as Adobe Lightroom. Each student built a personal digital portfolio that showcased their artistic growth and practical skills within a real-world setting. Alongside this, students documented their journey through vlogs and video testimonials, capturing the highlights, challenges and behind-the-scenes moments from their time abroad. 

To enhance their communication skills and cultural awareness, the group also took Spanish lessons, gaining valuable language skills. Living independently for two weeks, they were also responsible for budgeting, shopping, cooking and managing their day-to-day needs; a transformative step toward adulthood for many.

During the students’ out-of-work hours, they had the opportunity to explore some of Seville’s most iconic landmarks, including Seville Cathedral, the historic Real Alcázar (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and Plaza de España, a famous film location featured in Star Wars and Lawrence of Arabia.

Other highlights included:

  • Photography Scavenger Hunt: A creative challenge that saw students capturing album-cover-style shots by the river and group photos by the cathedral fountains.
  • Las Setas at Sunset: A magical evening visit to Seville’s famous wooden structure, taking in panoramic views and a dazzling light show.
  • Guadalpark Water Park: A fun-filled day of water slides and races after a week of hard work.
  • Group Nights In: From fajita-making and game nights to bowling and arcades, these evenings strengthened bonds and built confidence.
  • Awards Night: On the final evening, students celebrated each other’s achievements with fun group awards — recognising those who stepped up, helped others, and even did the most washing up!

This unique experience gave students the chance to apply their skills in a real-world setting, gain international perspective, and develop personal qualities that will benefit them in both their careers and lives.