A group of students from Coleg Cambria Deeside is now better equipped for careers in music following an inspiring two-week trip to Barcelona. The visit was part of an educational partnership with NexGen, an international careers organisation based in the Catalan capital, aimed at enhancing the students’ understanding of the music industry.
During their time in Spain, the Sound Engineering learners engaged with industry experts, gaining valuable insights into the skills necessary for success in the field. Lisa Jansen from NexGen explained that the programme was tailored to meet the needs of the students. “We explored their skills, including what they are good at and what they enjoy doing. From there, we developed ideas on what the market needs before delving into business model presentations,” she said.
The trip also included visits to local events and institutions, such as a sound engineering school, where students attended talks on industry practices and challenges, including the impact of artificial intelligence on music production. The exposure to different aspects of the industry provided a comprehensive educational experience.
In addition to their educational activities, the students had opportunities for sightseeing, visiting landmarks such as Barcelona Zoo and enjoying the beach. They even experienced breathtaking views of the city from a cable car, enriching their cultural experience.
Student Tash Bradshaw reflected on the transformative nature of the trip, stating, “We came on this trip to learn more about music and gain new skills, but it has been so much more than that and brought some of us out of our shells. We have also explored different cultures, which has impacted us overall as people.”
Fellow student Cory Robinson echoed this sentiment, noting the importance of the business-focused aspect of the programme. “We learn a lot of technical skills in college, so looking at how to set ourselves up in business and break into the industry was very useful. This knowledge will help us in the future,” he said.
Julie Guzzo, Cambria’s Curriculum Director of Technical Studies, accompanied the students on the trip and emphasised the significance of the partnerships formed with NexGen and other overseas organisations. She stated, “As a college, we are looking to provide more and more of these opportunities. We want to show learners what is out there for them, and our reach in further education, both in the UK and internationally, is growing all the time.”
The educational visit to Barcelona not only offered the students professional development but also fostered personal growth and cultural awareness. With the skills and experiences gained, the students are now better positioned to embark on successful careers in the music industry.
