Posted by
Ryan Watts
on
27/05/2011
A word, if you don’t mind, on education…
It delighted us here at the Packshot People to learn that Norwich University College of the Arts was recently placed as the Guardian’s foremost specialist arts institution in England. Among the considerations for this accolade were graduates’ career prospects, results from the National Student Survey, the student/staff ratio, spend per student, entry-level requirements and value added to academic achievement – and NUCA excels in each department.
The Packshot People take a particular interest in NUCA’s achievements as director Mike Harrington teaches on its photography course. The course is designed to shape students’ individual styles, geared towards the commercial environment – prioritising independence and individuality, nurtured for different campaigns.
The effect of this style of teaching is to prepare students for an environment in which photographers are increasingly hired for their style and their specialisms rather than simply for their ability. The results are visible in the consistent high quality of degree shows, as well as in the Guardian’s rating – it is a pleasure to Mike to be a part of the development of the next generation of creatives in this way. It is also notable that exceptionally talented NUCA alumni have a habit of finding their way into our studios - across all aspects of the work that we do - so it's excellent to see the university doing so well.