Middleton media lounge ready to build on success

The Media Lounge in Middleton, which engages young people in learning new media skills, has been re-commissioned for another year.

Following last year's success the Lounge wants to extend its activities to young people from across Rochdale this time around.

Media Lounge workshops will once again take place at Pride Media Associations base at Burnside Crescent in Middleton as well as Matthew Moss Community Youth Centre, with travel costs being paid for young people from across Rochdale.

Managing Director Jonathan Burns said: "The Media Lounge Project 2006/7 was a huge success, supporting many young people back into education and employment. It is fantastic that the project has been commissioned for another year."

The Media Lounge aims to provide fun, creative learning opportunities for young people aged 16 – 19 from all over the borough who do not attend school, college or work.

One of last year's participants Sarah Fearon, age 17, from Sabden Close, Heywood said: "Being part of the Media Lounge Project was great because it gave me the chance to gain qualifications and experience which helped me secure a job." 

Young People can choose from a range of activities to take part in, including DJ’ing and Mixing using Vinyl and Computers, Web Design, Photography, Animation and Video Production.

Those involved will work alongside a Media Tutor to develop a practical media project such as a Video Advertisement, Music Video, DJ Mix or set, a radio show or personal website, working on either a one to one basis or with a small group of peers.

Seventeen-year-old Thomas Ingham from Lower Bamford Close, Middleton said: "I enjoyed the practical approach to the project, especially learning radio skills and techniques. The Media Lounge helped me to achieve more confidence and develop my communication skills and got me ready for going to college."

Staff offer expertise in assisting young people to access further training, support, in moving towards a career or employment.

Participants can also choose whether they attend activities for fun and new experiences, or use the opportunity to gain a recognised accreditation up to NVQ level 2.

Last year almost 50 young people engaged in learning new media skills. This year there are a number of funded places available for young people from across Middleton and Rochdale after the project received funding from Connexions; the Information, advice and guidance service for young people aged 13 – 25.