City of Westminster College BTEC HND Music Production students had a unique opportunity to learn more about the technical and backstage career opportunities available within the theatre and live music industries during a Production Day visit to The 02 Arena at Greenwich. The visit gave them insights into the roles and responsibilities of the teams who bring major live shows to the stage.

The group of five students, who are in the second year of their course, went behind the scenes to meet and chat with the professionals preparing for a Duran Duran concert. After watching the preparation, students were then invited back to enjoy the show itself. Organised by National Skills Academy (NSA) for Creative & Cultural, of which City of Westminster College is a Founder College, Production Day visits enable students to experience some of the UK’s finest venues and meet the men and women who work in key backstage roles. Previous opportunities have included visits to some of the UK’s largest summer festivals.

Music Production HND student Jefferson Plowright says: “Our trip to the O2 was a brilliant learning experience as we were able to actually witness the goings on behind the scenes. I was especially pleased that we were able to speak to the engineers in charge of lighting and sound and pick their brains about different equipment and venues.”

Lecturer and Course Manager for HND Music Production Joe Clancy says: “This was an excellent learning experience for our students, supporting the practical and theoretical training we provide by giving them the opportunity to meet top industry practitioners. The visit also enabled them to understand more about the technical and logistical demands of a live performance.”

City of Westminster College is a major national provider of Sound Engineering and Music Technology/Production training, offering excellent facilities – including industry-standard studios and two College theatres – and working closely with leading employers and the NSA for Creative & Cultural to ensure relevant skills and qualifications for these demanding and fast-moving industries. The College offers Music Production qualifications ranging from BTEC Level 2 up to BTEC HND. It also offers Level 3 qualifications in Music Technology and Media Production.

The NSA for Creative & Cultural operates as an industry-led membership organisation and develops the delivery of industry-approved standards, training and related skills through a network of creative and cultural employers and education and training providers. From April 2012, it will join the Arts Council’s National Portfolio of funded organisations, enabling it to provide more opportunities for training and employment in the arts.