Bradford College

Government Official Visits College

Government official, Dr Carole Sweeney, visited Bradford College’s WOW Academy on Wednesday 14th October, accompanied by British Council External Relations Manager, Helen Silvester. Dr Sweeney leads on the Government’s work on International Education Partnerships at the Joint International Unit.

Working in partnership with the British Council, the purpose of Dr Sweeney’s visit was to see how international programmes support FE colleges. During her visit she also met with students and staff who have benefited from initiatives funded by the British Council, in particular the creation of a partnership between Bradford College and the School of Film & Media at Whistling Woods International in Mumbai, which is Asia’s largest Film, Television, Animation and Media Arts institution.

Earlier this year students from Whistling Woods jetted into the UK to visit Bradford College which was followed by a visit in September to Whistling Woods International, from Bradford College students to cement the exclusive partnership. During the exchange, students worked together to create a short film called ‘The Music of Life’, which will be submitted to Bradford’s prestigious Animation Festival and other international film festivals in 2010. 

Commenting on the inspiring partnership, Photography Course Tutor, Trevor Griffiths said: “This partnership has opened up new and exciting opportunities for students studying Photography at Bradford College.”  Trevor added:  “It’s excellent to work in collaboration with a leading University situated in the heart of Bollywood!”  

Students gave a presentation on how the Whistling Wood partnership has had an impact on their lives and reported back on their recent visit.  Presentations were also given by Hashim Hashim, Head of Innovation at the WOW Academy on new fashion industry partnerships with educational institutions in Sri Lanka. This was followed by a presentation on international policies and world class events by Bradford College Directorate Project Manager, Ronnie Todd.

Commenting on their overseas visit to Mumbai and Whistling Woods International, BA (Hons) Photography Student, Martin O’Nions said: “The institute itself was just amazing and the technology they’ve got there is second to none.  During our visit, we were told that Hollywood representatives fly over frequently to use the facilities at Whistling Woods, as there are no others like it in the world.”

Becky Sturdy, BA (Hons) Photography Student added: “The students were fantastic… really welcoming and accommodating. Whilst in Mumbai, we got to really experience the culture, we were invited to one of the student’s houses for an authentic Indian meal; there were about 20 of us in total!”

Speaking at the event, Ronnie Todd, Directorate Project Manager said: “We’re delighted to welcome Dr Carole Sweeney to the College to see more of the initiatives we’re doing with the British Council.  Its been an excellent opportunity for our students to go to India, as it’s important that we look at the cultural heritage of our learning community. India is wonderful and our students and staff have been fortunate enough to experience this. The Whistling Woods project is just one of a series of international initiatives. It’s great for the College, as it promotes Bradford on an international stage.”