Channel 4 apprentice, Amy Ruffhead answers our questions on breaking into the media industry through an apprenticeship.
How did you get a job in the media industry on an apprenticeship and what team do you work in?
I knew I didn’t want to go to university so I did some research into my options after A Levels, and I came across companies like Channel 4, BBC and ITV who offered apprenticeships at varying levels and in multiple departments. I was studying Media A Level at the time and really enjoyed learning about the broadcasting and media industries, which led to me applying for an apprenticeship through Multiverse at Channel 4. At Channel 4, I work in the Product Team to grow Channel 4's online streaming service, All 4.
Can you tell us a bit more about working in the media industry at Channel 4?
Channel 4 is part of the media industry and was created to be a disruptive and innovative force in UK broadcasting. Channel 4 is quite unique in that it’s a public service broadcaster but is also a commercial TV channel with advertising, like ITV. Channel 4 works within the media industry to create change and does this by championing unheard voices and standing up for diversity across the UK.
What are the current media industry trends that are important to you and your role?
The biggest industry trend at the moment has to be the rise of streaming services. Media consumption has changed as more people have stayed at home, causing viewing habits to change, for example, an article I read recently stated that 69% of US consumers were subscribed to at least one streaming service, with new show releases on platforms like Netflix and Channel 4 breaking viewing records. My role sits within the All 4 and All 4+ teams which focuses on retaining these audiences and convincing new subscribers to consume the content available.
An important part of working in the media industry is always thinking about how you can be innovative. Audience insights drive innovation so we adapt All 4 to cater to our viewer’s behaviour.
