Stockport students to benefit from new cinema work experience scheme

Trafford and Stockport College Group has forged a new partnership with Stockport leisure complex, The Light, aimed at giving students access to unique insights and experiences in the film and entertainment sector.

Together, the two organisations are establishing a new Film Panel, designed to open up hybrid work experience opportunities to students across the Group. The programme will blend on site activity, supported by college staff, with virtual elements to create a flexible and inclusive learning environment.

The collaboration will enable students to explore a wide range of roles and responsibilities within the cinema and film exhibition industry. Planned work experience areas include customer service, cinema operations, marketing and promotion, events, film programming, and audience engagement.

Michelle McLaughlin MBE, Head of Personal and Professional Development, who is leading the partnership on behalf of the Group, said:

“We are delighted to be working with The Light on this exciting new initiative. Our goal is to provide learners with meaningful experiences that inspire and inform their future career paths. The hybrid structure means we can offer a flexible, dynamic programme that supports different learning needs, while giving our students real insight into the film and cinema industry.”

The Light team is equally enthusiastic about the collaboration. Nicola Wood, Business Manager at The Light said:

“At The Light, we are passionate about working with young people and helping them understand the many career opportunities available in our industry. We are thrilled to partner with Trafford and Stockport College Group to offer work experience that is both practical and creative, and we look forward to seeing what the students bring to the programme.”

The Film Panel will be developed over the coming months, with the first group of students expected to take part later this year.

This partnership reflects Trafford and Stockport College Group’s ongoing commitment to providing career-focused education and strengthening ties with employers across Greater Manchester and beyond.