Film and Digital Media students from Wiltshire College & University Centre have stepped out of the classroom and into a high-speed, real-world setting during a visit to Castle Combe Circuit.
The group was invited by Castle Combe Racing Club to support its annual pre-season media day, working alongside professional photographers and media teams to capture content across the paddock, pit lane and trackside.
Thalia Tuck, Callum Hillier, Harris Eastman, Vitalii Yahoda and Sam Budgell took part in the experience, supported by Media Technician Frankie Broadhead, as they created photography and video content for both the racing club and their own portfolios.
Working in a fast-paced public environment, students were challenged to adapt quickly, capturing high-quality images while navigating the demands of a live event.
Callum Hillier, 17, from Calne, said, “It was a really welcoming environment and we were treated like professionals. I developed my camera skills and learned new techniques I can use in future work, but also became more confident speaking to people and taking photos in public.”
Students documented everything from high-speed on-track action to behind-the-scenes moments as teams and drivers prepared for the season ahead.
Sam Budgell, 17, from Devizes, said, “It was so much fun and felt like combining two of my interests. Being able to get so close to the cars and drivers and capture content throughout the day was incredible. It made me feel like a professional.”
As well as refining technical skills such as shutter speed and tracking moving subjects, the experience also helped students develop communication skills, confidence and the ability to work under pressure.
Vitalii Yahoda, 18, from Corsham, said, “There was so much energy. Everyone was working on cars, driving or taking photos. I learned more about camera settings and really enjoyed being part of that environment.”
The media day plays a key role in Castle Combe Racing Club’s preparations for the 2026 season, bringing together teams, drivers and media to build momentum ahead of the racing calendar.
Cat Dall’Occo, Racing Club Manager at Castle Combe, said, “The value of a media day is huge. It’s about supporting each other and celebrating a shared passion for motorsport. At Castle Combe Racing Club, we’ve always been committed to supporting students and emerging talent, and to giving people access to an industry where hands-on experience is becoming increasingly difficult to gain.”
Kate Samways, Deputy Head of Creative Arts, Media and Performance at Wiltshire College & University Centre, said, “This was a great opportunity for our students to work alongside media professionals and capture content in a live environment. They were creating material both for the racing club and for their own showreels, which makes the experience really valuable in terms of building their portfolios and preparing for future work.”
The visit reflects the college’s commitment to giving students meaningful industry experience, helping them build confidence and prepare for careers in the creative industries.
For more information, visit www.wiltshire.ac.uk.
