Next Steps Abersychan
We here at Able Radio have set off on our new project for Next Steps with Abersychan school. The Next Steps programme aims to assist those who are still of compulsory school age with deciding which type of further education would be best for them, whether it be 6th Form or College and then help answer any pressing questions in regard to University. This isn't just done in any old manner with questionnaires or worksheets, but with getting the pupils to film their own documentary following their journey of discovering more about what they can do with their future and enthuse them about it.
Our first day involved getting the kids to choose their own roles within the studio and then familiarise them with all the equipment, after which they were introduced to a studio environment. A show was planned, questions were written and lines rehearsed. Then it was all Lights, Camera, Action!
A few nerves showed at first, but after seeing themselves up on a screen and relaxing a bit more, the whole group settled into their jobs brilliantly. Soon enough the whole introduction to their documentary was completed. Next up; an adventure to the University of South Wales!
Here the groups were given a taste of University life, what they could expect from courses and how exactly they could find their way around such a massive building! We were given a presentation from Adam Martin, head of Computer Games Design at the University where everyone was given an in-depth example of what they would do, how long it would take and what qualifications were required, as well as many more questions!
After a delicious (and free) lunch, the group split up; one lot heading outside and the other moving on to the library where they met with Pablo, former President of the Student Union and a current student at the University. He was given no option but to take part in an interview, headed by one of our group, whilst the other half did their best dodging traffic and getting some great exterior shots of the campus!
All-in-all it was an awesome day for everyone and hugely useful for the kids.
Next stop; The Blaenau Gwent Learning Zone