UWTSD collaborates with Celtic Deep to Highlight Marine Conservation through Film.

The BA Adventure Filmmaking course at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David have announced an exciting collaboration with Celtic Deep, a leading marine conservation organisation from Pembrokeshire. 

This partnership will focus on producing film and media production content that will highlight Celtic Deep’s conservation work, particularly their work in marine research up to thirty-five miles off the Pembrokeshire coast, in an area known as the Celtic Deep. The region is home to diverse marine life, including dolphins, sharks, and other ocean wildlife.

Throughout the academic year, students will continue to gain valuable experience in marine conservation, including advanced swimming and filming techniques, preparing them for careers in this dynamic and vital profession. The collaboration between UWTSD and Celtic Deep marks another step forward in offering real-world learning opportunities that inspire and empower the next generation of adventure filmmakers and conservationists.

Over the summer, UWTSD’s BA Adventure Filmmaking graduate Josh Knight had the opportunity to work with Celtic Deep as an intern to film their ‘Sharkademy’ project. The company praised Josh’s work which represented to project in detail, capturing striking images of both the coastline and the marine research from the vantage of a boat and aerial drone footage.

Josh said: 

“Over the summer I helped to document the Sharkademy programme which has been set up by Celtic Deep and Mareco to help develop and provide hands-on field experience for aspiring shark specialists right here in the UK.

“Capturing images underwater is a very different type of challenge to your average ’topside’ experience, having the opportunity to pursue this avenue of filmmaking has been truly beneficial. There’s a lot more to think about when filming underwater, from focusing on your subject to being aware of your own surroundings and prioritising your own safety, but also the safety of the animals and environment around you. 

“The team at Celtic Deep are all passionate, caring and dedicated individuals who commit a their time to understanding and researching our oceans, but also put the effort in to share this knowledge with the rest of us. My experience working with them this summer has been truly unforgettable. Not only has it developed my skills as a filmmaker and photographer but also changed my understanding of the oceans around us.”

Richard Rees from Celtic Deep added:

“ Celtic Deep is a company about adventure, with a mission! That mission is to share the wonders of our marine life here in Wales with as many people as possible. Capturing the magic of exploring our coasts and sharing these stories through film is a crucial tool for us in generating engagement and appreciation of life in our waters. 

“ We’re very excited to have the opportunity to collaborate further with the UWTSD Adventure Filmmaking course. Our hope is that this is a win win, where both parties are able to exchange knowledge and improve their respective skillsets, while also hopefully inspiring the next generation of ocean advocates and storytellers.”

UWTSD’s Adventure Filmmaking Programme Manager, Dr Brett Aggersberg said:

“Our evolving partnerships with industry experts and subject specialists continue year on year. We pride ourselves on offering practical courses, with BA Adventure Filmmaking being unique in the UK. 

“Celtic Deep are an exceptional asset to Wales and the world, and we are fortunate to be able to collaborate with them and offer special experiences for our students. I recently went on an expedition out to the deep ocean and was honoured to be able to swim with blue sharks. The experience and expertise of the team made the interaction with these beautiful animals possible, and demonstrated the potential for graduates from our programme”.

For more information about Adventure Filmmaking courses, visit: Adventure Filmmaking (Full-time) | University of Wales Trinity Saint David (uwtsd.ac.uk)

Further Information

Lowri Thomas

Principal Communications and PR Officer     
Corporate Communications and PR     
Email: lowri.thomas@uwtsd.ac.uk     
Phone: 07449 998476