Army salute creative students

Feb 24 2010 by Sue Scott, Evening Gazette

MEDIA students have won high praise from military top brass for their corporate work as a Tees Valley college shares its skills with the community.

Btec national diploma in media, TV and film students James Stevenson and Anthony Humes have successfully completed a promotional DVD for the Army that will be displayed on wide screens across Catterick Garrison.

The 10 minute DVD promotes the training regime new recruits can expect when they arrive at the camp.

It features life in the classroom, on the ranges and the assault course and is shown to troops on a loop in several areas.

The DVD marks a new departure for Darlington College which is offering its state of the art facilities, the creativity of its students and technical skills of tutors to local organisations, including public and private sector bodies.

Principal Tim Grant said: “Darlington College is at the heart of the community and is thrilled to be able to offer an expert service using industry standard equipment. This initiative not only provides experience for our students but also supports local companies and organisations.”

James was responsible for editing action footage shot by his media tutor John Gibb. This involved liaising with the army, arranging footage and producing a soundtrack.

“It was a fantastic experience because the project was real; we had to work with the client, produce our best quality work and hit deadlines,” said James, 19, of Middleton Tyas, near Richmond.

Anthony, 18, of Darlington, added: “I had to produce a 3D moving image using the college’s logo and an army shield. This involved using Maya, the same software that designers use on Hollywood blockbusters and Disney cartoons. We are delighted with the results.”