Last month, two of our talented Level 3 Media learners, Leo and Jack, and two of our amazing Level 3 Photography learners, Harrison and Ethan, showcased their skills at the World Combat Arts Ring Warrior competition in Bristol. This exciting event gave the students a chance to capture the intense action through photography and videography, providing invaluable real-world experience in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. 

The learners attended a pre-briefing led by event organisers where were given a walkthrough of the arena, informed about restricted areas, and briefed on the expectations for their behaviour and professionalism. Mel Edmonds, one of our media lecturers who accompanied the learners, emphasised the importance of this opportunity to understand industry standards and working in a professional environment. 

"The students were absolutely brilliant, respectful, and professional," said Mel. 

The competition featured a thrilling mix of kickboxing and boxing matches. The students were positioned so close to the action that they experienced the raw intensity of the sport. Despite the chaotic environment, they maintained their focus, regularly checking their footage and equipment to ensure everything was intact and accounted for. 

The learners worked seamlessly as a team, constantly supporting and checking in on one another. They also had the chance to collaborate with Alex Romanov, a professional photographer based in Swindon, further enriching their learning experience. 

Their professionalism didn’t go unnoticed. The event organisers were so impressed that they asked the students to leave their contact details for future opportunities. The learners made it a point to thank everyone for the chance to participate, shaking hands with key stakeholders and leaving a lasting impression. 

The students documented the event with both photos and videos, capturing the raw emotions and energy of the matches. The photos told a vivid story of the day, reflecting the highs and lows of the fighters' journeys.

Mel’s connections with the event organisers made this a safe and constructive space for the students to learn and grow over the past two and a half years, ensuring they gain hands-on experience in real-world environments and network with industries early on.  

“This was a fantastic opportunity for the learners to meet clients, network, understand expectations, and practice professionalism while working in a team,” Mel added. 

The students’ enthusiasm, punctuality, and dedication were evident throughout the event. Their efforts not only enhanced their portfolios but also opened doors to future opportunities in the industry. The experience underscored the importance of practical learning and the value of forging industry connections. 

As we continue to nurture the next generation of media and photography professionals, events like these highlight our commitment to bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. 

We’d like to say a big thank you to World Combat Arts for giving our students the opportunity to further their knowledge and put their skills into practice. 

If you’re interested in joining one of our Media or Photography courses next September, click here.