BBC, Birmingham university partner to find next generation of creative talent

The BBC’s new premises at the Tea Factory in Digbeth

The BBC and Birmingham City University (BCU) in the UK have announced a long-term strategic partnership to develop the next generation of producers, content creators and creative media professionals.

The 10-year collaboration will establish a centre for creative skills and learning at the BBC’s new headquarters in the West Midlands region of England, at the Tea Factory in Digbeth.

It will support the delivery of a portfolio of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across journalism, content creation, production and broadcast technology.

To enhance employability and provide students with direct access to industry expertise, the BBC will contribute to workshops, shadowing opportunities, masterclasses and live industry briefs, as well as lectures.

The project supports the BBC’s Across the UK strategy, which aims to stimulate creative growth beyond London, develop local talent pipelines and strengthen creative economies nationwide.

The collaboration comes a year after the BBC announced a major expansion of its operations in the West Midlands, pledging to almost double its production spend in the region from £24m (US$32.1m) to £40m by the end of 2027.

Simone Marquis, chief talent and inclusion officer at the pubcaster, said: “At the BBC, we want the future of the creative industries to be shaped by talent from every part of the UK. This landmark partnership reflects our continued commitment to the West Midlands and will help ensure the next generation of creative professionals has the skills, experience and opportunities needed to thrive.”