As we roll around to that time of year where year 11’s have finished their exams and been granted early freedom, year 10s, like myself, are sent away for a week for work experience. Whilst most students go and work with their parents and some find themselves stuck in a job that they have zero interest in, I discovered a place that I never expected Rochdale to have. Breaking Barriers is a production company based in Rochdale, creating and showing all sorts of artwork and immersive experiences. They have great morals, embracing creativity and diversity, both of which are incredibly important to me.
Personally, new places and unfamiliar environments are unsettling to me, therefore when I was getting ready for my first day of work experience, I was nervous. I knew it was irrational, as the company seemed welcoming even before I’d been. And my expectations were certainly met and beyond. When arriving, I was met with a comfortable and inspiring atmosphere. On Monday, I was given a few tasks to complete, all of which I knew would benefit me in the long run, such as creating a CV, or being given the task of creating a blog. I sat through a couple meetings, learning and absorbing new information on how project meetings work, and how many people go into making creative projects. One of the first things I noticed was that this company operates like a family, everyone gets along and if there’s a problem, it’s solved from everyone’s input.
On Wednesday, I met with Andy Hurst, a filmmaker. I found our chat really interesting, and definitely inspired me to reach out and take as many opportunities as I can that I can make the most out of and get ahead in the film industry, as It’s my passion to become a screenwriter for films and shows. I was shown websites and even YouTube channels all about film and how movies can only come together through a team. After our talk, I felt really encouraged to get out there and keep going with this passion of mine. Later on in the day, me, Jodie, Parvez, and Matt Radcliff met and went on a walk in Rochdale, showing Matt around the most cultural and popular places in the town centre. It reminded me how lucky I am to live in a place like Rochdale, and how beautiful it really is. Throughout the day, I took some pictures for a social media takeover (one of the many terms I learnt here). I think they turned out well and I definitely found this day to be my favourite. For the rest of the week, I got on with the tasks I had been assigned, all of which I actually found enjoyable. I had the opportunity to speak to a lot of people at the studio individually, discovering how people get into the job they’re in now, and how it’s not so straightforward, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel.
Overall, my experience at Breaking Barriers was amazing. I came out of my shell, made new friends, and got an insight into what it’s like to work in the arts industry. They’re incredibly welcoming and compassionate, they care about what they do and why they do it, and I found it to be inspiring, to say the least. I really recommend getting in touch with them, and visiting every upcoming project, I can guarantee it’ll inspire you and see the amount of effort and love they pour into these projects. Thank you to everyone at Breaking Barriers, it was a wonderful experience.
Written by Sofia Merlo, year 10.