John Jones, Computer Games Design Course Tutor
PHOTOGRAPHY Y1 ZOO POSTER PROJECT
Each year, our photography and graphics students work with Dudley Zoo on a variety of exciting projects aimed at raising awareness of animal welfare and conservation.
This focus of this year’s project was to produce posters about each species of animal which interested them, with many students making regular trips to the zoo to photograph the animals and learn more about them and their eating habits.
Not only is this a good chance to put their knowledge of camera techniques to the test (as animals can be notoriously difficult to photograph) , it’s also a great opportunity to get closer to wildlife in a way that can’t be achieved simply by watching nature documentaries online or on TV.
Below is a gallery of some of our students’ amazing images – we hope you enjoy.
Phil Brooks, photography course tutor
A-Level Photography allows learners the opportunity to express themselves creatively while exploring ideas and concepts that are personal and meaningful. This is clearly demonstrated across the wonderful work created by this years A-Level cohort. I could not be prouder of the work and achievements made by each member of the Photography group.
Learners often choose issues within society as a means to connect their Photography to an audience. The course consistently challenges them to problem solve and improve both quality and concept as they progress. This ultimately prepares them for both industry and Higher Education.
Industry-standard software and equipment are embedded throughout the course to again support progression, exploring the Creative Cloud Adobe Suite with programs such as Photoshop and Lightroom for image editing, along with InDesign to create their stunning portfolios and project work. To allow for a deeper understanding of photography, learners are encouraged to work with both modern and traditional techniques such as darkroom and Cyanotypes. This 2-year programme builds theoretical and practical knowledge to allow our learners the creative means to express themselves through Photography.
I hope you enjoy exploring the work from this year’s Photography learners.
Simon Morris, A-Level Photography Tutor, Dudley Sixth
The concept of my project (component 2) was to convey images that expressed the weather and light. While taking these images I tried a different number of locations as well as objects – like trees and ponds and boats as well as geese and ducks.
I really enjoyed both black and white photography and colour and when it came to picking my final images it was sometimes hard picking between the two. When editing my work, I didn’t really change much, just exposure of the images.
I am currently working at a photography studio and hope to continue my work there and to develop more skills as a working photographer.
These images mainly served as final images for a project which revolved around self-portraiture as a means to explore the deeper workings of the human psyche. These images all use a variety of editing methods, with the main ones being the use of digital editing to create Spiral effects, blending as well as enabling two subjects to be present in the frame at once.
Other edits that I employed for these series of edits include physical editing methods such as the act of tearing and overlaying two images. All of these were carefully chosen since I felt that they captured the deeper portrayals of the human psyche in a captivating and creepy manner.
I plan to study History and War Studies as a joint honour at The University of Wolverhampton.
These final images are from my component 2 project where I explored the topic Active or Relaxed. I decided to focus on a documentary style approach for this project, focusing on one person per photoshoot.
I wanted to capture people doing their favourite things that keeps them active and/or relaxed. For example, I captured my dad playing golf which both keeps him active but also helps him relax as it is a sport he thoroughly enjoys. I kept the images in black and white, as it gave them a more personal feel to them, as well as emphasising documentary style.
After A-Levels I plan to continue working with photography and hopefully pursuing photography as a job.
Throughout my works, I chose to follow a cinematic route by capturing scenes that surround me on a day-to-day basis using candid imagery. Cinematography often controls what the audiences can and can’t see, so I was able to use this to my advantage by capturing the beauty that is pre-existing within people, places and things; to help me change people’s perceptions of certain aspects of life that may be overlooked.
I believe that I have successfully demonstrated this concept through the images that have been showcased here.
I plan to continue pursuing photography at the University of the Arts London (UAL) and obtain a degree in it.
I have thoroughly enjoyed photography A-Level, and my final 2 components have been orientated around my interests, such as street and natural photography. These interests I stretched to my extent, firstly beginning Component 1 based on Fantasy and Fiction. Hopefully, these images look ethereal and perfect to project this theme.
However, for component 2, I have totally switched this on its head and experimented with the idea of Fear enforced by the Urban Environment. These contrast my first images, being dark and isolated and scary.
Thank you to everyone who has helped me through these 2 years including Simon and my family, and I want to wish a well done to everyone else in my class who have done a fab job : )
I plan to study a degree in Archaeology and History at Exeter University, keeping up photography as a keen hobby.
For both my Component 1 and 2, I worked around the central theme of fashion. My component 1 I worked on glamour and fashion photography as it aligns with my interests and is common in everyday media. I investigated magazines such as Vogue and Elle which inspired me and guided me to understand modern beauty standards.
For my second project I worked with different fashion in different locations, I tested a range of different models and places to create a range of moods and aesthetics. I am currently working towards going to Worcester University to study Dance and Performance, and intend to carry on with photography in the future.
For this project I explored the concept of individuality by forming characters to showcase the distinct separateness between people and how each person has their own identity. My initial starting point of this project was table, and it is through a table that I have presented the different personality types of an individual by giving them their own personality trait.
For the layout of the images, I wanted to capture all of the models together in an arrangement to further accentuate the uniqueness of each of the characters. Overall, my images are successful as they extenuate the difference between each person through the simplicity of a table and incorporate a variety of skills such as cinematography which is the art of photography and visual storytelling in a motion picture. I used this to build a narrative for each of the characters to help further underline the individuality of a person.
In the future I am to go to the University Of Birmingham to study sociology and education.
Within my first project I explored the connections between human and natural form. Through doing this I hoped to portray our connection to nature and emphasize our natural beauty as I feel this is something which has been lost within the Morden age, because of the harsh beauty standards rooted within society.
For this project I followed the brief ‘focus’ and chose to photograph natural forms under colored lighting conditions to emphasise the level of detail their surfaces contain, and to make the outcomes more interesting.
I am planning to take a gap year and work on my photography portfolio and hope to continue into photography as a career.
This work is from my component 2 project. I focussed on blurring the lines between the arts and culture of my closest city -Birmingham- and the architecture and work culture by combining work of the graffiti and street art of Digbeth and the inner-city buildings and workplaces by creating collages and overlapping images of the two.
I chose to show this due to the erasure of art in a city’s culture despite its immense impact especially on its youth, I wanted to focus in particularly on the windows of the buildings to showcase the architectural aspect, this is compared to the fleeting line work and bold colours of the street art.
My photography work has helped me obtain more knowledge of the arts and helped solidify my passion in this field. After my A levels I am going to study Art History at Aberystwyth university.
The role of a graphic designer is incredibly varied. You may find yourself immersed in a fantasy world while designing a set of illustrations for a book, or exploring complex data to create exciting and vibrant infographics that inform rather than confuse.
Graphic communication students at Dudley Sixth are introduced to a wide selection of processes and techniques. Using a range of both traditional and digital methods, they are encouraged to move beyond their comfort zones to produce a variety of work supported by an understanding of design theory and a developing awareness of contemporary practitioners to inform and influence their ideas.
In their second year, students begin to develop their own visual identity while becoming increasingly self-directed and independent, producing a collection of work tailored to their interests and specialisms. This could be an advertising campaign, design work for a clothing website or a set of illustrations for an album sleeve or book. Throughout the year, students will be encouraged to try new approaches and consolidate the skills they have learned in their first year to produce strong, challenging and professionally-produced designs. I believe you will see all of these qualities in this year’s second year work. I hope you enjoy it.
Chris Worley, A-Level Graphic Communication Tutor, Dudley Sixth
As a purpose built, self-contained A-Level centre with the goal to educate and enthuse the next generation of learners, Dudley Sixth is fast gaining a reputation for being one of the best places to study A-Levels in the Black Country, Birmingham and the wider West Midlands region.
Our A-Level courses in Fine Art, Graphic Communication, Photography and Textile Design are your gateway to Higher Education, Higher Apprenticeships or employment. The majority of our learners plan to progress onto university and many accept places at a range of Russell Group universities, including Birmingham, King’s College London and Manchester, as well as other local prestigious universities including Aston and Keele.
With subject specialists guiding you through your two-year A-Level programme, you will receive the highest quality education. Our aspiration is for you to achieve your potential and have a very successful future.
This year has seen some adventurous work come from the A-Level Fine art cohort. The organisational skills and motivation of the students has really been tested. Working with found objects and sometimes huge canvases the patience and skill level of the students has been pushed to their limits. However, all the students have risen to the challenges presented over the year and produced high quality work they should be proud of.
The students should be extremely proud of their achievements – as am I – and I wish them all the luck for the future.
Gillian Worley, A-Level Fine Art Tutor, Dudley Sixth
REFUGEE EXHIBITION AT HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT
In March 2025, staff and students from Dudley College of Technology marked a momentous occasion with the launch of the “Refugees in Dudley” exhibition at the Houses of Parliament. This ambitious project, two years in development and commissioned by Lord Ian Austin, provided a vital platform for the voices and experiences of refugees through compelling photography and media.
The House of Commons Upper Waiting Hall hosted a stunning display of student portraits, a specially created book, and an impactful film produced by the college’s photography and media students. Alongside their work, a series of poignant portrait paintings by technician and artist Chris Davies were also showcased, attracting significant attention from a diverse audience of visitors and political figures.
Phil Brooks, Photography Course Leader at Dudley College, reflected on the extensive effort involved. “It’s been quite something to organise!” he shared. The successful launch event featured a dinner, a parliamentary tour, and inspiring speeches. Notable attendees included Members of Parliament, representatives from key refugee agencies, and The Holocaust Education Trust.
Phil also extended gratitude to several key individuals: Lord Ian Austin for personally transporting the entire exhibition to London, MP Sonia Kumar’s team for their exceptional hospitality, and Councillor Keiran Casey for his invaluable help and support.
The success of the exhibition was a collaborative effort, involving many dedicated individuals. Special thanks were given to students like Josh Harper (now at the University of Wolverhampton) who traveled for the event, Chris Davies for his paintings and project support, and Stuart McConnell and his students for their brilliant film featuring interviews. ESOL tutor Sally Hebbard was commended for her role in enabling the project with her wonderful ESOL refugees from around the world, including Ukrainian student Tetiana Vergun, who also attended.
Further appreciation went to Amanda and the Students’ Union team for enabling a coach load of students to attend, Mireille Digard (Sustainability Manager) for generously funding the printing of the exhibition books, and Diana Martin (Chief Executive and Principal) and Claire Millard (Vice Principal Curriculum and Quality) for their presence, making the day even more special.
“This has been our most important and prestigious project to date,” stated Brooks. “Thanks to all who took part and enabled important stories to be heard in our struggle to promote and celebrate the importance of human kindness, community, and resilience.”
This powerful photography and media exhibition undoubtedly amplified crucial messages of hope and resilience.
Dudley College is proud to offer a range of Level 2 Creative Media courses designed to equip students with the practical skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in the media industry. Among these offerings is the Level 2 Diploma in Creative Media Production and Technology, which provides comprehensive training across various media disciplines.
This diploma focuses on developing practical skills and media knowledge essential for the modern media workplace. The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of media disciplines, ensuring students gain versatile skills that enhance their employability in the sector.
The learning approach is project-based, emphasising real-world experience and professional environments. This hands-on training prepares students for diverse roles within the media industry, from production and editing to content creation and beyond.
In addition to the Level 2 Diploma, Dudley College offers a T Level in Media, Broadcast, and Production. This advanced course combines academic learning with practical experience, including work placements and examinations. The T Level is designed to provide students with a deeper understanding of the media industry, preparing them for higher education or direct entry into professional roles.
By enrolling in these courses at Dudley College, students can expect to receive high-quality education and training that aligns with industry standards. Whether you’re looking to start a career in media or advance your existing skills, Dudley College’s Creative Media courses offer the perfect foundation for your professional journey.
Dudley College’s Level 2 Creative Media courses open doors to a variety of exciting career paths in the media industry. Here are some potential roles you could pursue:
These courses provide a solid foundation for further study or direct entry into these roles, equipping you with the practical skills and industry knowledge needed to succeed.
We hope you enjoy this gallery of work from this year’s Level 2 Creative Media students at Dudley College of Technology.
Next year is the 200th anniversary of the first photograph. Despite its recent convergence with the world of ‘high tech’, photography is still essentially about communicating creative ideas eloquently through the capture of light and time. However, with 200 years of photographic history behind us, it becomes increasingly difficult for photographers to surprise us with ‘effective novelty’, as creativity is sometimes defined as.
This year’s large second year cohort has had its share of ups and downs. Last year they had a trip to Ilam in Derbyshire where we climbed Thorpe Cloud and Bunster Hill, as well completing a 10-mile hike to Thor’s Cave. Many also travelled with me to Poland, where we visited Krakow, the Salt Mine and Auschwitz.
Two students represented the college in the Lessons from Auschwitz program, presenting their findings to 400 people at this year’s Dudley Holocaust Memorial event, marking 80 years since the liberation of Auschwitz.
In March, we managed to exhibit our positive-image portraits of Dudley’s Refugees in The Upper Waiting Hall of The House of Commons. We were pleased to have exhibited at such a prestigious venue, to reach an influential, wider audience and shine a positive light on the plight of all Refugees. We feel this project is more important than ever now, in order to promote a sense of hope, unity and togetherness.
In addition, current second year students have made a yearbook and a book exploring and conveying positivity and acceptance within themes of diversity, individualism and togetherness, focusing on areas such as age, gender, sexuality, ethnicity, race, hair colour, disability, etc. Again, first years have had their zoo project exhibited at Dudley Zoo. We are grateful also to Dudley Rotary Club for generously funding our ‘Wonderful Water Competition.’
We have been fortunate to work with local art photographer – Anand Chhabra again, on an ‘Exploring the High Street’ project for Historic England. With Anand’s help we have developed the Dudley Photographers Network this year, involving talks by world class professionals such as Andy Kruczek and Rob Hornstra from as far afield as Holland.
We have continued to build close relationships with local universities too, many of whom we visited for workshops, or they visited us. Thanks to Hereford College of Arts for awarding this year’s ‘One to Watch’ awards. Over half of our young people are heading for university, many locally but some as far as Falmouth, with one even studying marine photography there!
We were proud to welcome back Megan Jeffries of the class of 2021, a graduate of Falmouth University, who has worked closely with us in her transition from student to lecturer. In the end, the class of 2025 have solved problems and come together to showcase their creative talents here. Thanks to our wonderful technician – Chris Davies for making this online exhibition possible!
Phil Brooks, course leader, photography
