This case study explores students’ experiences of work-related learning (WRL) during the cultural partnership established between Leeds Metropolitan University and Festival Republic, the promoters who run the Reading, Leeds and Latitude music festivals and help run the Glastonbury festival. This creative and dynamic partnership provides exciting opportunities for students and staff to develop experience and skills in a festival setting.

Students, staff and alumni are involved in a variety of projects that give them a unique behind-the-scenes festival experience that enhances their work experience and CV and for some students also contributes towards their course credits. During the festival events, students develop their skills in stage management, filming, and performing arts; engage in playwork; run campsite DJ stations; and provide assistance to festival-goers.

The aim of the case study was to explore the ways in which student participation in these activities provided them with opportunities for enhancing their professional knowledge and occupational understandings and contributed towards the development of a range of personal qualities and competencies.

Download a pdf version of the case study here.

More information on the partnership can be accessed at:

http://www.leedsmet.ac.uk/as/index_festival_republic.htm

Conference presentations

Smith, C. & Triantafyllaki, A. (2010) Creative arts students’ work-related learning experiences in the public and third sectors: A cross-case analysis of four dimensions of learning. SCEPTRE Learning for a Complex World Conference Proceedings, April, 2010, University of Surrey, U.K.

Triantafyllaki, A. (2010) Work-related learning activities as agents for transfer. 5th CLTAD International Conference. Challenging the curriculum: Exploring discipline boundaries in art, design and media, April, 2010, Berlin, Germany.