Working alongside Chronicle journalist Milly Bell, who leads the interviews, the students are helping to capture the stories of 13 finalists. These include people who have saved lives, championed children with special educational needs and disabilities, supported those experiencing grief and helped keep Barnsley blooming.

The student crew includes HNC Film and Television students Bobby Nash, Jay Stewart, Dominic Goldthorpe and Sophie Pickering, alongside HND students Olivia Clifford and Matthew Carter.

Tutor Beth Giblin said: “Throughout the project, the students have rotated between roles including directing, producing, camera operation, vision mixing, sound recording, lighting and teleprompter operation. Using professional studio equipment, they are developing technical skills while learning how to respond to a client’s needs and support contributors on camera.

HND Film and TV student Olivia said: “Working alongside Barnsley Chronicle and filming the videos for the Proud of Barnsley Awards 2026 was an absolute honour. It was amazing to be part of something so important and impactful, while having the opportunity to work with clients in our Film and Television studio at Barnsley College University Centre.”

Alongside managing the technical demands of filming, the students have focused on creating a welcoming environment for contributors, particularly when interviews explore sensitive or emotional experiences.

For Olivia, the project has also revealed new strengths and encouraged her to consider opportunities in producing.

She added: “The experience made me believe in myself more, especially when my tutor Beth said I could become a producer one day. It helped me recognise skills I didn’t realise I had.”

The project supports the students’ professional portfolio assignments, giving them practical experience to draw on as they prepare for careers in the media industry. Their tutor has seen growing confidence, stronger teamwork and greater assurance when communicating with clients and contributors.

HNC Film and TV student Jay said: “I’m most proud of being part of a team which was able to provide a platform for all the nominees to share their stories and promote their hard work.”

He added: “This experience has allowed me to apply some of the practical skills I’ve gained so far on the course within a live client situation, allowing me to feel more confident in my abilities to operate the various kit available to us.”

The students and their tutor have been invited to attend the awards ceremony, where they will see their work on the big screen as Barnsley comes together to celebrate its local heroes.

To find out more about our courses please visit: www.barnsley.ac.uk/media

Come and see our industry standard facilities and speak to expert tutors at one of our HE drop-in sessions or open days: www.barnsley.ac.uk/events