A new student-led professional standard video production company has been launched by Royal Leamington Spa College.
RLS Productions, which will be run by college group WCG, will be working with SMEs and larger businesses to support their video production requirements – with students set to benefit from real-world experience and get paid.
Around 20 Degree and Post Degree-level students will be involved in the company and Royal Leamington Spa College will also be opening up its stellar production suite for clients and local filmmakers to hire out too.
The college has recently installed a new editing suite and state-of-the-art green screen for students to use in their studies and as part of their work with RLS Productions.
It will give student hands-on experience of working with clients, while being overseen by staff in the college with significant industry experience.
Students involved in the production company will be studying on the Digital Film Production BA and Digital Media Content course at Royal Leamington Spa College, while former students with successful companies of their own will be returning to help guide the new company.
Luke Sloan, a 21-year-old student on the course, said: “I’m excited to be a part of RLS Productions because I want to be able to use my knowledge and skills in professional work.
“I think this will prepare me for the industry post-graduation and it will give me work that I can later use in my portfolio.”
Tom McGowan and Matthew Shaw graduated from the college in 2020 and have since set up production company Focusgate. The pair will be using the college facilities for their own venture and joining RLS Productions in a mentorship role.
“Since we left the college we have been given advice from the tutors on how to take Focusgate forward, so we thought it would be good to come back and pass our industry experience onto current students,” said Tom.
“RLS Productions will give the student true experience of industry and how to deal with clients, whilst also developing their own skills. It’s a good opportunity to get a taste of the real industry before graduation.
“We’ll also be using the great equipment and facilities at the college as part of our Focusgate work too. Matthew and I are excited to be involved.”
Liane Green, course lecturer at Royal Leamington Spa College, added: “We are always looking for ways to prepare our students for industry and this new venture will be a fantastic way for them to gain valuable experience.
“The students will get the opportunity to work directly with clients in small teams and produce products ranging from company promotion videos, to music videos and content for YouTubers.
“Clients will be able to come in and use our new facilities at the college and benefit from our students being ready to act as the crew for that shoot.
“These are degree-level students who will be producing professional quality products and we are delighted to be welcoming back ex-students to support their development too.”
