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My name is Lisa Dear, and I graduated in 2024 from the BA (Hons) Costume Construction Degree at the University Centre South Essex (UCSE), delivered in partnership with the Royal Ballet and Opera and UAL.

After undergoing cancer treatment in 2017, I felt a strong desire to do something purely for myself that would open the door to a possible career change. When I saw an advert for the course, I knew it was worth exploring. The idea of expanding my sewing knowledge while gaining a degree in something I truly loved felt like the perfect opportunity. 

Studying costume, rather than fashion, really spoke to me. After attending an open day at the Purfleet studio and seeing the displayed costumes – including a tutu - I knew I wanted to learn how to create pieces like that. The partnership with the Royal Ballet and Opera was a huge draw. Having access to the costume stores of such a world-renowned institution was a huge attraction, and meeting the tutors further confirmed it was the right choice for me. 

Practical considerations were important too. I needed to continue working alongside my studies, and with the Grays and Purfleet studios located on my train line, the course was accessible and manageable around my job. 

Throughout the degree, I developed a wide range of technical skills including pattern cutting, tailoring, tutu construction, fabric dyeing, and interpreting a design into a finished garment. 

One of the highlights of my studies was undertaking a work placement at the Royal Ballet and Opera in Purfleet, where I worked on tutus for Cinderella. Logging my time during projects also gave me valuable insight into time management and how to charge clients appropriately – an essential professional skill in an industry where many costumiers are self-employed. 

My personal project was another standout experience. I collaborated with students from hair and makeup, photography, and other courses, as well as booking space at The Backstage Centre to complete my final shoot. It gave me a real understanding of the teamwork required to bring a creative vision to life. Seeing my work displayed publicly for the Royal Ballet and Opera Prize, and later at the end-of-year show with family, friends, industry professionals and the public in attendance, was incredibly special. 

I quickly realised that university was quite different from what I had expected. It’s very self-directed;, you truly get out what you put in. With the support and encouragement of the tutors, and a personal drive to create beautiful costumes and achieve strong results, I found myself pushed in directions I hadn’t thought possible. That challenge helped build my confidence and expand my abilities far beyond what I imagined at the start of the course.  

My journey wasn’t straightforward. I originally began the course in 2018 but had to postpone my studies due to medical reasons. I restarted in 2022 and completed the degree in 2024, despite undergoing major surgery in my final months, and working 26 hours a week in an office role. There were times I didn’t think finishing would be possible, but every obstacle was overcome. I completed additional English qualifications during my first year, reduced my working hours with the support of my employer, and received financial support through student finance to make it achievable. 

Although I’m not currently working full-time in the costume industry due to ongoing health and financial considerations, I’ve completed several small commissions for friends and family. One of my favourites was creating an Angel Gabriel costume and wings for my friend’s daughter’s nativity – a project I’m especially proud of. 

One of my greatest honours has been having my Costume in Art piece selected to be displayed as part of the course’s 10th anniversary celebration at the Royal Ballet and Opera in Covent Garden. To know that my work will be seen by the public in such an iconic venue is something I never imagined when I first applied. 

While I may not yet have a costume career, earning a degree in collaboration with the Royal Ballet and Opera and UAL is one of my proudest achievements. It’s the dream I never knew I had. 

If you’re considering applying to the BA (Hons) Costume Construction, I would absolutely encourage you to have it as one of your options. The facilities and tutors are excellent, and the exhibition is a wonderful way to see the range of skills students develop and to hear more about their experiences. 

It’s one of the hardest but best things I’ve ever done and I’m grateful I was able to start, pause, and ultimately finish what I began. 

My name is Charley Finding and I am a Class of 2020 First-Class BA (Hons) Costume Construction graduate.  

What initially drew me to apply for the BA (Hons) Costume Construction course was the idea of bringing together two of my greatest passions: creating cosplay costumes and Musical Theatre. I have always been interested in the performing arts, particularly what happens behind the scenes, so this course felt like the perfect opportunity to turn my creativity into a career.  

The partnership with the Royal Ballet and Opera gave me confidence that this course would be an opportunity to learn from an incredible area of the industry.  Ultimately the connection is the reason I was able to break into such an incredible industry, one that keeps me excited and inspired every single day. The course and its partnership opened the door to an amazing future, and I’m incredibly proud of myself for taking that leap.  

During my time on the course, I developed a wide range of technical and interpersonal skills that I now use every day in my professional life. I learned how to communicate effectively within a studio and workshop environment, manage my time efficiently and consistently work to a high standard of finish.   

One of the highlights of my second year was a creative pattern cutting project themed around drag artists. This project stood out to me because, as someone who has always been creative, it was my first opportunity to be fully immersed in the design process and have complete creative freedom over what I produced.  

I feel the course provided us with a wide range of experiences, both in practical costume-making techniques and in developing the interpersonal skills needed within the industry. I also appreciated the honest conversations about the challenges costume makers can face in the creative world. Understanding how the industry works before graduating is so important, and I always felt supported and well prepared by the course leaders.  

After graduating, my first role was as a Costume Revivals Casual at the Royal Ballet and Opera. This came after several months of searching for external work, which at first was disheartening. However, as someone with no prior professional experience in the costume industry, joining the Royal Ballet and Opera gave me the opportunity to learn at the highest standard while developing confidence in a supportive environment.  

In February 2025, I joined WhiteStar Costume, a maker’s studio specialising in theatre, film, TV and entertainment. I am now a core Team Member, focusing on creative and varied construction techniques. In a short period of time, I have developed my skills far beyond what I imagined possible, and I am incredibly grateful to be working in such an encouraging and inspiring environment.  

Since graduating, I’ve really enjoyed using my skills for personal creative projects. A particular highlight has been creating cosplay costumes inspired by Starlight Express, the musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber. It has been a real joy to reinterpret the stunning original designs by John Napier, incorporating my own creative additions. These costumes capture everything I love about theatre, they are imaginative, whimsical and fun, while also being technically challenging to construct using a wide range of materials.  

If you’re thinking about applying for the BA (Hons) Costume Construction course, I would wholeheartedly encourage you to take that step. Whether you already have experience or are just starting out, it’s an amazing opportunity to grow your skills, build confidence, and create real career prospects for the future.  

Join us and celebrate 10 years of exceptional craftsmanship at the UCSE BA (Hons) Costume Construction 10th Anniversary Exhibition 

Open to the public and hosted at the Royal Ballet and Opera in Covent Garden, this inspiring exhibition showcases outstanding graduate work and achievements from the past decade.   

Tuesday 10 March - Sunday 22 March  
Linbury Foyer, Royal Ballet and Opera House, Bow Street, London, WC2E 9DD  

My name is Spencer Glen, I’m a self-employed artist and Animation graduate, currently running my own creative business and selling my work at comic conventions across the UK. I studied at South Essex Colleges Group (SECG) from 2016 to 2018, before returning to education at University Centre South Essex (UCSE) from 2021 to 2024, where I completed a BA (Hons) Animation, achieving a First-Class degree. 

I originally chose South Essex Colleges Group because it was local and offered a Creative Media course. After taking a three-year break from education, I decided to return and continue my studies at UCSE. Having already built relationships with the tutors and being familiar with the learning environment, it felt like the right place to come back, refocus, and develop my creative skills. Returning to SECG and UCSE turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. 

My journey into higher education wasn’t straightforward. During my college years, I faced personal and health challenges that affected my studies. Taking time away from education allowed me to rebuild my confidence and return with a clearer sense of purpose. With encouragement and support from tutors, I was able to restart my education, settle into a new campus environment, and fully commit to my degree. 

During my time at UCSE, I developed both my creative and personal skills. The course helped me build confidence, create a strong social circle and learn how to manage my time, set goals, and work to deadlines. I was encouraged to push myself creatively, particularly with areas such as character design and anatomy, which have become central to my work. 

Since completing my degree, I’ve taken a unique path into self-employment. What started as a single piece of artwork created for a comic convention quickly grew into a creative business. I now sell my artwork, prints, and products at conventions across England and Scotland, building my stock, improving my stall and growing a supportive community around my work. 

My time at SECG and UCSE played a huge role in preparing me for this. The supportive learning environment, dedicated tutors, and access to industry-relevant equipment and software. 

One of my favourite memories from university was the Japan trip in my third year, a unique experience and a memorable way to finish my studies alongside my classmates and tutors. 

The best thing about higher education is the opportunity to focus on a subject you’re passionate about while building confidence and practical skills. I would recommend South Essex Colleges Group and University Centre South Essex for their supportive staff, engaging courses and commitment to helping students reach their potential. 

My ambition is to continue growing my creative business, reach new audiences, and explore the possibility of teaching in the future, giving back to students in the same way I was supported. 

My name is Jessica Bernard, and I’m a Graphic Designer at Keyloop, working across brand development, visual storytelling, and creating identities for global industry events for the automotive technology sector. I studied Graphic Design & Illustration at South Essex Colleges Group (SECG) and University Centre South Essex (UCSE) at the Luker Road Campus in Southend-on-Sea, completing my studies from 2017 to 2022.

I chose to study at SECG, and later UCSE, because it felt like the right environment to grow, not just as a designer, but as a person. The hands-on, creative approach to learning and the genuine support from tutors gave me confidence, direction, and the space to explore what I wanted my future to look like.  

I’d always been drawn to creativity. At school, I naturally gravitated toward subjects like art, design, and anything that allowed me to communicate ideas visually. Coming to college was the next step, a place where I could turn that early passion into real skills and a potential career path. I achieved DDM at college (2019) and graduated from university with a 2:1 (2022). 

Since completing my degree, I’ve built my career as a graphic designer and found myself working in a sector I never expected, automotive technology. I now work at Keyloop, where I focus on brand development, visual storytelling, and creating identities for global events, internal culture campaigns, and digital platforms such as the Drivetime Podcast. In the past two years, I’ve been able to play a role in modernising how the automotive sector communicates by making complex technology feel more human, inclusive, and accessible. My work has helped strengthen engagement across the business and the wider industry, and I’ve grown into a more strategic, cross-functional role as a result. 

My time at SECG and UCSE played a huge role in preparing me for the workplace. The supportive environment, meaningful feedback from tutors, and practical project-based learning taught me how to take briefs, interpret them creatively, manage deadlines, and present professionally, skills I use every single day. The college also helped me build confidence, improve my communication skills, and trust my creative instincts. These abilities have shaped how I tackle both work and personal projects, from illustration to photography, reminding me that creativity is part of who I am. 

The equipment I used were a great introduction to the professional tools and workflows used in the industry. The college provided access to up-to-date design software (such as Adobe Suite), reliable Macs, and creative facilities that allowed me to understand the fundamentals of working in a modern design environment, while also allowing us to experiment with the non-digital side of the industry, which I found incredibly insightful. 

My favourite memory from my time at UCSE is the sense of community in the creative department. I loved being surrounded by people who were just as passionate as I was, sharing ideas, experimenting, exploring, and encouraging each other to try new things. It was the first place where I truly felt like a designer, and that feeling has stayed with me ever since. 

The best thing about studying higher education is the chance to discover your potential. It builds skills, confidence, and curiosity, while giving you the freedom to experiment, take risks, and learn in a supportive environment. For me, it also opened doors to new opportunities and connections that shaped my career. 

I would recommend SECG and UCSE as they offer a genuinely supportive and creative learning environment. The tutors are invested in your growth and encourage exploration, which gave me the confidence to take risks and find my own voice. The practical, project-based structure means you graduate ready for real-world work, not just exams. And the sense of community among students and staff makes it a place where you feel seen, challenged, and inspired. If you’re someone who wants to turn creativity into a career, it’s a place that will help you do it. 

My greatest achievement so far has been receiving Autocar’s Drivers of Change: New Talent award. It represents not just a milestone in my career, but the impact I’ve been able to make in a short space of time by bringing a creative perspective into the automotive industry. It’s also a reflection of the work I’m most proud of, redefining how design is used to create clarity, strengthen culture, and humanise complex technology. Being recognised on that level, especially as someone who entered the industry from a nontraditional route, is something I’ll always see as a defining moment in my journey. 

My ambition is to keep building momentum in my career, taking on new challenges, and seeing the impact I can make through design. I want to continue shaping how creativity drives engagement, clarity, and culture, while exploring the full potential of my work to influence both the industry and the people within it.

My name is Emily Burrett, I am 23 years old. I studied Media Television and Film production Level 3 Diploma, and Film and Television production BA (Hons) at South Essex Colleges Group (SECG) and University Centre South Essex (UCSE) from 2017 to 2023 and this is my story.

I had no background in media before I came to the college. I had some experience in working backstage but I used to film and edit YouTube videos in school which I think pushed me into wanting to study Film and Television production.

In both college and university I wanted to receive the highest marks possible, which I worked quite hard for. In college I got a distinction* distinction* distinction* and in university I got a First.

I viewed a few colleges and universities before I decided on Southend, after seeing their equipment and tutors I decided that was the right one for me. I also have a sibling who studied fashion at the college, and her experience there was really good.

My time at college and university allowed me to understand the industry a bit more. In college I got to understand industry standards and how different filming and editing styles worked. This then carried over in to university where I took these skilled I learned in college and developed them even more.

I think also having access to tutors who have worked in the industry or still were during my time was also really helpful as they shared their knowledge into different things.

Confidence really helps working in media. The confidence I gained really helps me pitch ideas to other producers and even presenters and celebrity guests that we get in.

I was quite quiet before I started college and wasn’t super outgoing either however, when I joined Southend, I met a great group of people and it gave me the confidence to speak more in classes, work with different people and even share my ideas more.

During my time at college and university we also got to use industry standard software as well which proves really useful as it gave me more knowledge when going into my job and it looks great on a creative CV that you know how to use them!

My favourite memory has to be getting to work on little films and music videos with my friends and class. I got to meet a lot of like-minded people who enjoyed Film and TV just like me.

Since leaving college and university I have worked with an international media and radio brand along with enhancing my skills in film and photography. I now work for Bauer Media which is a multi-media company which specialises in Radio and Podcasting. I mainly work for Magic Radio as a Social Media Producer, but I also work for other brands under Bauer including Hits radio, Absolute radio and Kiss radio.

My job entails a lot, firstly I write articles for the Bauer, these mainly consist of news relating to music or the West End. I also create graphics for social media platforms to help promote our radio station and what we have going on at the moment.

Along with articles I also help produce Magic Radio social media content. This includes writing scripts for shoots, directing shoots, filming shoots, editing shoots, taking pictures of guests in the studios, cover red carpets, work with other brands such as Disney or Universal, creating social formats, location scouting and much more.

Before I got this job I was actually working in a bakery whilst I was at college and on the side I was still filming, editing and photoshopping outside of University and work just to build together more of a skill set for my CV. I then applied to a wide range of different media jobs either being a runner on sets or helping make content for small businesses to no avail. I then applied to Magic to work as a social media assistant and have progressed from there up to a producer role!

I would recommend SECG and UCSE especially to those who are looking to get into a similar field that I’m in currently.

My greatest achievement so far is probably getting this job! It’s allowed me to do so much of what I dreamed of in college and university. I’ve met so many amazing people and got to go/do so many amazing things. I’ve been able to attend prestigious award ceremonies, direct my own shoots, meet celebrities I would of only dreamed of meeting!

In the future I would like to progress in my role and work higher up in my company, I would also like to work for different well-known brands and companies such as the BBC, Universal, Disney etc.

My name is Will Thatcher, I am 28 years old and I studied BA Graphic Design and Illustration at South Essex College until July 2023 after graduating with a first class, and this is my story.

I wasn’t a big fan of school when I was younger, so I did a Business Admin apprenticeship in London. I then stayed at that company for another four years working in IT but decided it wasn’t for me. I have always been passionate about art and design, so I came to South Essex college to pursue a more creative career. I first enrolled on the Access to HE Art & Design course for a year, which helped me solidify my choice of graphic design.

I have just finished a six-month internship as a Graphic Designer at West Ham United FC organised through the college. It was part-time, so I was lucky enough to be able to do this alongside my studies and continued this a few months after graduation. Working at a Premier League club was an unforgettable experience, and I learnt so much from it. I am very grateful to those involved, and I still can’t believe it happened.

I have just landed a job as a Graphic Designer at IMG | Seven League. They are a consultancy and digital marketing agency working with major sports brands such as the NFL, Premier League and NBA to increase fan engagement and attract new audiences.

My job involves working within the design team to come up with creative concepts for both client and internal briefs, such as social media campaigns, and producing exciting graphics to be used by the clients. Sport is super visual, and I get to work with different clients, each with unique identities, so no job is the same.

Having to give up my job to study full-time meant I knew I had to make myself as employable as possible. The great thing about Graphic design is that you can combine it with any passion. I am obsessed with sports, so this became the focus of most of my work, leading me to be selected for my West Ham internship. I also reached out to various football clubs for freelance work and developed passion projects. It was great for my portfolio and ultimately secured my current job. My advice to anyone studying for a creative degree is to push yourself and focus on a specific area/industry you would like to work in. It will make you stand out from the crowd.

I chose to study at South Essex because they offer a variety of courses on my doorstep. It allowed me to study while living at home, close to my family and friends. I also loved how diverse the college is, and I have made friends from all different backgrounds and ages. Enrolling on the Access to HE Art & Design course enabled me to try many mediums before making my choice.

Studying on my course allowed me to gain insights into the industry from my experienced lecturers and guest speakers. I learned design principles and essential skills such as Adobe Illustrator and printing methods.

The best thing about doing higher education was that I had the freedom, time, and space necessary to develop my knowledge and skills while under the guidance of my lecturers. It also gave me a lot of focus, which I may have struggled with if I had self-taught myself outside of my job.

I had no graphic design or media option at school, so everything was new, such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. I now consider myself skilled in them, but like everyone, I am still learning new things every day. We also learned how to present more effectively in crits to my peers and open myself up to feedback. Responding to feedback is a crucial skill in the creative industry, and the course provides a supportive and encouraging environment to help develop this.

The college provides access to Apple Macs with an Adobe Creative Cloud, which I previously had never used before. Although they are not absolutely necessary, it was good to learn how to use this industry-standard equipment and software. There are also brilliant printing facilities.

I would recommend South Essex College because it is a good option for anyone living locally who wants a supportive environment to learn at their own pace. A smaller number of students on each course also allows more interaction with your lecturer. You would rarely get this at larger institutions, and I don't think I would be at the same level I am elsewhere.

Coming here has massively helped me with my confidence. Before I came here, I wasn’t sure where life was going, but I realised it was the best decision I've made. Like anyone, I still have days of self-doubt, but these are much rarer now due to the strides I'm making and the encouragement of others.

My greatest achievement so far has been breaking into the industry of my choice at an agency where I am able to work with dream clients. I always knew I wanted to work for major brands. I still have to pinch myself.

I want to continue working in sports and have ambitions to be a creative director one day, as I enjoy motivating others and hearing other perspectives and ideas.

My name is James Mitchell , I am 38 years old and I studied/at South Essex College from 2002-2007 and this is my story.

I studied MND Moving Image and then a degree BSC Television Production and Screen Theory. South Essex College was local to me, it had the course I wanted to study on and it allowed me to stay at home and work in a local theatre. Industry kit is evolving all the time but a basic understanding of the college kit was very helpful.

It was a great base unit to help you realise your career aspirations. My most memorable aspect of the college was the relationship with the lecturers. This gave me the confidence more than anything else. The chance to prove myself. 

Since completing my course, I have worked in the West End in various theatres in Stratford Upon Avon for the Royal Shakespeare Company and in London at the National Theatre. I also worked at the college as a lecturer and technician for a couple of years, followed by working in Peterborough in shopping television and now work in Media City, Manchester for ITV News as a Lead Production Specialist.

My job entails looking after a team of fifteen production specialists and operating in television production roles. Which include head of lighting for ITV news, sound mixing, directing, floor managing, weather recordings etc. By working my way up, I was able to work as a trainee production specialist in 2013, to then being the Lead Production Specialist.

My proudest achievement so far, is winning two BAFTAs as part of a team, also winning Production Specialist of the year in 2017. I hope this will lead to my dream aspired role as an Operations Manager.

Are you an ex FE or HE student? Do you want your story to be told? Then contact us at marketing@southessex.ac.uk