BTEC Media and Photography learners along with A Level Film students went behind the scenes at the Warner Bros. Studios in Leavesden (near London), to see the detailed sets, props, costumes and animatronic technology of the Harry Potter films.

Daniel East, Level 2 Media student said, "It was really interesting because we got to see different props and how they were made, and also what went into making them. Even the simplest props and the designs behind them were intricate. It's opened up different ideas about what roles I could do in the film industry".

Secrets to the films success were revealed as students took the opportunity to see the sets of the Great Hall, the Weasley Kitchen. Diagon Alley and Dumbledores Office. Green screen technology was also showcased showing visitors how creatures were brought to life and how the iconic Quiddich games were filmed.

The visit was incredibly beneficial for all involved as it provided the students with the chance to learn about all the roles involved in making blockbuster films. They were able to identify how their courses could help them to develop the skills necessary to work in the film industry, and also to look at where they see their career or education heading next.

Francis Boxall, a 1st Year Media student said, "The tour was phenomenal. It has really motivated me to do well on my college course with view to continuing my education on a course related to film and media at university level, and hopefully to progress into the industry".

If a career in the film industry sounds like something you want to get into, find out how Boston College can get you there with our range of Media and Film Studies courses. Call our information line on 01205 313 218.

6 of the College’s A-levels and Access to Higher Education students toured the cities of Udaipur, Jodhpur and Jaisalmer over their 12 day visit taking in the cultural sights and experiences of the ‘real’ India.

Peter Holden, Boston College A-level lecturer has been running the trip for 4 years now. “The students have an amazing opportunity to visit the real India and not the typical tourist spots most trips take. We stayed in small local hostels and mixed with the locals, getting the chance to understand and experience the different cultural practices, attitudes and the true Indian way of life.”

As part of their trip the students visited a charity run school, taking the opportunity to experience the differences between our education system and how children are educated in India. They also visited a Women’s Centre, which encouraged students to experience the depth of cultural differences between their lives at home and the lives of the Indian nationals they met.

The students truly experienced a trip of a lifetime, culturally, religiously and educationally, a trip that will stay with them forever.