Schools from across Glasgow and beyond explore careers in media through industry-led workshops and live broadcast sessions.
Nearly 200 pupils and teachers from schools across Glasgow, Falkirk, Inverclyde and surrounding areas came together at the University of Strathclyde on Wednesday 25 February for an exciting day of interactive learning as BBC Academy Live brought BBC Verify on Tour to campus, proudly serving as the flagship event for Scotland.
Delivered in collaboration with BBC Academy Live and supported by University staff and alumni, the event gave young people a rare opportunity to explore the realities of modern journalism and media production. Alongside those attending in person, the event reached more than 3,700 online viewers, making it one of the most highly streamed sessions of the tour.
Hosted by BBC journalist and Strathclyde alum, Sarah McMullan, the day combined insight, inspiration and hands-on experience. Pupils rotated through practical sessions, including BBC-led masterclasses and workshops delivered by both BBC professionals and Strathclyde academics. Across the programme, students developed skills in verification, storytelling, data journalism and production techniques, while also putting their questions directly to those working in the industry.
One workshop group even went live on Fusion Radio, Strathclyde’s student radio station, producing and broadcasting their own segment, a memorable highlight that brought the pace and pressure of live media to life.
A standout session for many attendees featured Strathclyde alumni Rebecca Morris, casting director and welfare executive for the hit BBC series The Traitors. She was joined by Cheryl Richardson, story producer for The Great British Sewing Bee, who offered behind-the-scenes insight into how popular programmes are developed, shaped and produced. Their discussion shed light on the creative decision-making, editorial processes and teamwork required to bring major television productions to screen.
Alumni - Daniella Theis, Jennifer Wilson, Declan McConville
The creative industries careers panel also featured Strathclyde alumni alongside leading professionals where panellists shared honest reflections on their journeys into the media sector, offering practical advice on resilience, networking and navigating different entry routes into journalism and production.
Strathclyde’s own BA Journalism, Media and Communication students played an important role behind the scenes as part of their placement module. Supporting the event’s delivery, gathering content and interviewing alumni, they gained valuable experience contributing to a high-profile media partnership.
The atmosphere across campus was energetic and focused, with pupils demonstrating high levels of curiosity and engagement. From asking thoughtful questions during Q&A sessions to actively participating in practical workshops, attendees embraced the opportunity to learn directly from professionals currently working in the field.
BBC Verify on Tour provided a powerful showcase of Strathclyde’s industry connections, alumni network and commitment to widening access offering young people from across Scotland an inspiring insight into the possibilities of a career in journalism and the wider creative industries.