It all started around 140 years ago but this is no history blog. Let's just say that this institution has matured into a prestigious centre of excellence. And I'm part of it. How good is that? I'm a mature student so I've been around the block a few times. In fact I have travelled full circle because I started my career in the newspaper industry, being released to attend college so that I could qualify in my trade. So how strange that I went to the Middlesbrough College of Art in the early 60s. At the other end of the age spectrum, I'm now attending the sister college at Hartlepool, originally known as West Hartlepool College of Art.
Around this time, another person was attending the West Hartlepool College in the process of graduating with a Diploma in Design. This college provided a great springboard for Ridley Scott who, as most people know, went on to become a great movie director. For those who are not aware of the fact, Ridley produced his first piece of black and white 16mm film based around the college and town of Hartlepool. It was called "Boy and Bicycle." See this on YouTube below.
I believe that Mr Scott would be delighted to learn about the progress of this institution. The two colleges -- Middlesbrough and Hartlepool have recently taken the decision to split the FE and HE facilities in the syllabus and dedicate each to their respective location. My course is Creative Film and Moving Image. It carries a Foundation Degree and is based at the Hartlepool College of Art which has seen a great deal of investment of late as they have recently expanded into the adjacent Leadbitter and Municipal Buildings. These are the original main library and council offices respectively. My department is housed in the old Municipal building which has retained its Victorian elegance. I would describe this place as hauntingly hospitable, with an energy and atmosphere which is warm and welcoming. As a listed building it has been allowed to retain all its charm with fixtures and fittings kept in their original state.
As I continue blogging about my experiences and progress at the college I'm hoping to reach Mr Scott's company, Scott Free Productions, by sending regular links about the relevant articles which will include all news and updates regarding this centre of higher education. CCAD is the only specialist art and design college in the North East of England and one of only four in the country. It came top of the National Student Survey in regards to student satisfaction when compared with other specialist colleges and came fourth when compared to every college and university in the country. I'm sure that he'll be delighted to hear that this college has become a Top Film School.
Watch out for more blogs, the links of which I will post below.
LINKS FOR OTHER RELEVANT BLOGS
Mike's Student Journey -- My home page.
Teamwork
