BT Sport and NewVIc have done it again, producing a brilliant magazine-style studio show, created by 12 NewVIc media production students on an eight-week course on the fundamentals of TV production.  

NewVIc was lucky to be selected in 2019 when the project launched, giving local students from diverse backgrounds the chance to experience and work in a real broadcast environment and empowering them to create a TV show. 

Last year the project went so well, BT Sport aired the final show on BT Sport channels and their social media platforms. BT Sport signed off the new show after being impressed with the programme students created which premiered in a private event with family and friends, and aired nationally on BT Sport 2 recently on January 28. 

The Takeover show, presented by NewVIc students Ali, Ameila and Raheema focused on the BT Sport United commitment, which aims to champion positive social change in three areas; community, inclusivity and sustainability. 

It includes a series of short films that cover the three BT Sport United pillars and deals with topics that embrace both sport and culture on a local and national scale: 

Community – the team travelled to the Peak District with an organisation called the Muslim Hikers, founded by Haroon Mota, to gain an insight into how outdoor sports can be made inclusive to South Asian communities. 

Inclusivity – explored through a meeting with Javeno Mclean, owner of J7 Health Centre, who offers free personal training to elderly and disabled people in the Manchester area. 

Sustainability – the team headed over to Oxfordshire to meet Asylum Welcome, an organisation which helps asylum seekers, refugees and vulnerable migrants, to benefit from the organisation’s recycled bicycle project scheme and how these refurbished bikes enable asylum seekers and refugees to get to work, access education, attend appointments or pursue leisure activities in the community. 

Jamie Hindhaugh, chief operating officer of BT Sport, said: “This is the fourth year of the BT Sport Takeover Project. I can truly say this project makes my team better. We work in an industry which is and can feel quite inaccessible, so we want to help people understand there are many opportunities in the industry, both in front of the camera and behind the camera. Those who take part in the project quickly learn the value of being part of a team and pushing your skillset. I am hugely proud of each of the students. Congratulations.” 

Amelia, Level 3 creative media, production and technology student at NewVIc, added: “I decided to come to NewVIc because I wanted a fresh start when I left school - and it proved to be the right decision. I chose to study a Level 3 creative media course because my mum, who runs her own small media company, inspired me.” 

Initially, Amelia was hesitant to take part in the project because she was shy and lacked confidence. The Takeover experience changed all of that. There was never a dull day on the project, with lots of fun. Amelia said it really helped to build her confidence - and now she wants to become a presenter. 

Paul Jones, curriculum team leader and teacher for media, said: “The BT Sport Takeover project is an invaluable opportunity for our NewVIc media students. Each year we have had the privilege of being involved has been truly amazing! Students return after the 8-week project with a newfound confidence, which is the result of their time, spent learning about the industry, job roles, developing new skills, working as a team and being immersed in a fast paced, professional environment.

"The quality of the work they are creating is extremely impressive, we are so proud of them and we are very grateful to BT Sport for this opportunity.” 

NewVIc’s final show broadcasted last year can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tH1M0NgWVDI