UWTSD students go behind the scenes at BBC’s Roath Lock Studios

8 December 2025

Students of the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) had the opportunity to go behind-the-scenes on the sets of popular soaps, Pobol y Cwm and Casualty, during a visit to the BBC’s Roath Lock Studios in Cardiff.

UWTSD Students visit BBC Studios as part of careers visit day

The visit was organised through UWTSD’s CareerPathway Programme, a relaunch of the GO Wales programme and funded through MEDR, which aims to support students to become workplace ready.

Emma Evans, project lead at UWTSD said: “The funding is invaluable in supporting students to build professional connections, develop confidence, and move closer to the labour market. As part of this relaunch, we’ve expanded the work experience offer to include trips such as this one to give more students the chance of meeting industry professionals, exploring different career paths, and developing valuable work-based skills”.

Students from the BA Film and TV, BA Digital Media Production, BA Adventure Film Making and BA Acting were able to talk with members of the production teams, who shared their varied routes into the industry. They then toured the sets, stepping into the heart of Cwmderi, visiting Siop y Pentre, exploring the café, The Deri and Bethania Chapel, the setting for many memorable scenes from the Pobol y Cwm.

A visit to Holby City Hospital enabled them to explore the Casualty set where the level of detail, included the smell – brought the medical drama to life.

A highlight of the day was a hands-on production activity, where students took on a range of roles as actors, assistant directors, directors, camera operators, sound technicians, and video editors. They were given the opportunity to create their own storylines and filmed scenes multiple times, which gave them an authentic insight into the coordination and teamwork involved in the production process.

First year BA Film and TV student, Ntokozo Themba, said: “Visiting the BBC Studios was a powerful reminder of why I want to work in this industry. Seeing the creativity, teamwork, and precision behind every production has inspired me to keep pushing towards my goals.”

The visit concluded with a session with the BBC’s Budgets and Accounts departments, who guided students through the financial side of TV production. They explored the cost considerations behind each episode and the complexity of managing budgets for major shows like Casualty.

“This was a truly worthwhile visit” Emma explained. “Students gained a deeper understanding of what goes into working on a live set, from tight timings and logistics to creative problem-solving and budget management. It was an inspiring reminder of just how much skill and collaboration sit behind every scene we see on screen. The visit was an eye-opener for students, who often assume careers follow a straight path—when in reality, as we know, they rarely do”.

For more Information email careerspathway@uwtsd.ac.uk