
Universities as infrastructures of support: making the Solent Film Office happen
Associate Professor, Dr Roy Hanney penned an opinion piece, published by HEPI.
26 November 2025
1 December 2025
This year’s Production Futures Breakthrough Talent Awards has named Southampton Solent University class of 2025 graduate, Will Swain as winner of the Outstanding Achievement award.
Graduating from BA (Hons) Television Production in July 2025, Will has already made a name for himself within the world of broadcasting. Currently a Trainee News Operations Centre Engineer at Sky News, Will is also now an industry award-winner. Not only did he win the Outstanding Achievement trophy at this year’s awards – which are set up to champion emerging talent and connect them to opportunities – but he was also runner-up in three other categories.
“Winning the Outstanding Achievement Award was a complete surprise,” Will says.
“During my three years studying Television Production at Solent, I focused on giving as many other students as possible real industry experience. The TV world is tough to break into, and I wanted others to get the kind of hands-on opportunities that make a difference.”
While at Solent, Will was dedicated to both this studies and his craft. As part of that dedication, he spearheaded the annual National Student Television Association Conference and Awards during his final year, resulting in hundreds of students from across England visiting Solent for a weekend of networking and events. Solent’s Senior Lecturer TV Production, Kate O’Driscoll says:
"Will's achievements are a reflection of all his hard work, both during his time at Southampton Solent and in the short time since he graduated. Courses like Television Production are industry focused, embedding real world learning into the curriculum and offering a wide range of work experience opportunities. This allows our students to develop their professional practice and work-ready skills. Will is one of our many graduates who have gone on to pursue successful careers in the creative industries."
