Enhancing Community Ties Through University-Trust Partnerships
The University of Portsmouth actively seeks opportunities to strengthen its connection with the local community, fostering initiatives that benefit both students and residents. One notable example of this commitment is the recent collaboration with the Mary Rose Trust, focused on celebrating community engagement through innovative projects and educational activities.
This partnership underscores the university’s dedication to civic responsibility and regional development, demonstrating how academic institutions can play a pivotal role in supporting local cultural heritage and community initiatives.
Showcasing Creative Student Projects and Community Impact
At the heart of this collaboration are the creative efforts of students from the Faculty of Creative and Cultural Industries. Specifically, students studying BA (Hons) Film Production, Television Production, and Post-Production crafted short films that highlight inspiring community projects across Portsmouth. Over a twelve-month period, they worked closely with local partners—including Funk Format, My Dog Sighs, Motiv8, and Portsmouth Music Hub—to film, record, and edit compelling content that reflects the spirit of community participation and artistic expression.
Such projects not only provide valuable industry experience for students but also serve to elevate the recognition of Portsmouth’s vibrant community initiatives. As Charlie Watts, Associate Head for Global Engagement at the university, emphasizes, this hands-on approach bridges academic learning with real-world impact, enriching students’ educational journeys and strengthening community ties.
Experience-Based Learning and Industry Collaboration
Practical, practice-based learning is central to the university’s approach. Students engaged in this project gained direct insight into industry standards, collaborating with established organizations and community groups. Connor Cleary from the School of Media, Film, and Creative Technologies notes that working on authentic projects with real clients provides invaluable skills and confidence for future careers.
Particularly noteworthy is the use of Portsmouth’s volumetric capture green screen studio at the Centre for Creative and Immersive Extended Reality (CCIXR). This advanced technology enabled students and local community members, like staff from Portsmouth Music Hub and St John’s Cathedral Catholic Primary School, to record performances in 3D, producing high-quality content showcased at the Mary Rose exhibition.
If you’re interested in developing practical skills through similar initiatives, explore [professional media courses](https://www.port.ac.uk/study/courses) offered by the university. These programs prepare students for careers in film, television, and digital media, emphasizing industry readiness and creativity.
Strengthening Community Engagement via Heritage and Education
The partnership also exemplifies how heritage organizations can collaborate with academic institutions to promote cultural preservation and community participation. The commemorative exhibition, titled ‘Anchored in the Community,’ ran from February 16-23, 2025, offering visitors interactive activities and showcasing student-made films.
Supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, this project amplified Portsmouth’s maritime heritage while providing students with a platform to display their talents. Such collaborations foster a deeper appreciation of local history and encourage active community involvement, aspects that universities can help expand through targeted projects.
Implications for Future Student Involvement and Community Projects
The success of this initiative points to broader opportunities for student engagement in community development. By partnering with local organizations, universities can serve as catalysts for social cohesion, cultural expression, and applied learning.
Students involved in this project gained experience that not only enhanced their portfolios but also contributed to Portsmouth’s cultural narrative. This approach aligns with a growing trend in higher education to offer experiential learning that benefits society at large.
How to Get Involved and Maximize Community Engagement
If you’re a student, educator, or community leader interested in fostering similar collaborations, consider the following steps:
- Identify local partners: Engage with community organizations, heritage trusts, and cultural institutions interested in collaborative projects.
- Utilize university resources: Leverage facilities such as green screen studios, digital editing suites, and collaboration hubs to support project development.
- Integrate experience-based learning: Incorporate practical projects into curricula to provide real-world experience for students.
- Seek funding opportunities: Apply for grants from organizations like The National Lottery Heritage Fund to support community-focused initiatives.
- Share successes: Publicize completed projects to elevate community profiles and inspire further participation.
Participating in such initiatives benefits all stakeholders—students acquire vital skills, local organizations promote their work, and communities experience increased engagement and appreciation for their heritage.
Final Thoughts: Building a Culture of Civic Responsibility through Education
Through strategic partnerships like that of the University of Portsmouth and the Mary Rose Trust, educational institutions affirm their role as active contributors to community development and cultural preservation. These collaborations foster an environment where students can apply their skills meaningfully, create impactful media content, and deepen community bonds.
If you’re seeking to pursue a career in digital media, community education, or heritage management, consider exploring the university’s programs and initiatives that support civic engagement and creative projects. Get involved and help craft a richer, more connected Portsmouth.
To learn more about the university’s creative courses and community projects, visit the Portsmouth study programs and discover how you can make a difference through education and collaboration.
