Driving employability through experiential learning and partnership: Northumbria University

Northumbria University

www.northumbria.ac.uk

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Building pathways into publishing: A collaborative approach.

Launched in 2022, Northumbria University’s one-year master’s degree in publishing is designed and delivered in collaboration with Hachette UK – the UK’s second largest publishing group – and New Writing North, a leading charity dedicated to supporting the development of creative writing and reading in the North of England.

The unique programme gives students the opportunity to take part in a work placement with Hachette UK, enabling them to apply their learning in a real-life context, gain valuable experience and enhance their knowledge of publishing and the wider writing industries.

Since 2012, Northumbria University has worked with New Writing North to contribute to culture, practice-led research and development in the region and beyond.

With the added support of Hachette UK, it is now able to expand and strengthen this work even further.

This partnership will continue to strengthen as Northumbria University and New Writing North work together to open a physical centre for writing and publishing in Newcastle over the next few years.

Richard Kitson, Hachette UK deputy chief executive, says: “Working closely with Northumbria University has been an incredibly positive part of our Changing the Story initiative, which is our commitment to the vital work of diversity, equity and inclusion, to ensure we include all voices, perspectives and ideas in our partnerships, people and publishing.

“Right from the start, along with New Writing North, we wanted to revolutionise the publishing master’s degree by including practical, hands-on experience, access to industry experts and an understanding of how publishing works.

“We want every student to complete the course ready for employment in our industry.”

Will Mackie, New Writing North programme leader – MA publishing, adds: “We are delighted to partner with Hachette UK and Northumbria University on an exciting and creatively inventive master’s programme.

“The presence of Hachette’s specialist staff alongside Northumbria University’s academic expertise makes for a unique and rewarding learning environment.

“New Writing North curates and delivers an original module where we share the benefits of more of our own expertise.

“Every element of this course aligns with New Writing North’s long-term commitment to developing, diversifying and nurturing talent in our region, and more widely in the UK’s publishing and writing sectors.”

From education to employment: Victoria Howard’s journey to Hachette UK.

When Victoria began her master’s degree in publishing in 2022, she never imagined how far the journey would take her.

As the first recipient of the Hachette UK scholarship, she not only completed a successful work placement with the global publisher, but is now a full-time member of staff.

With a background in English language and linguistics, Victoria’s path to publishing was shaped by a deep love of books and a desire to return to the North East, a place that felt like home.

Now working full-time in Hachette UK’s rights department, Victoria aims to help decentralise the publishing industry by making it more accessible beyond London.

Through the opening of national branches, educational partnerships and professional networks, she hopes opportunities will open up for people from a wider range of backgrounds and locations across the country.

Rights executive Victoria says: “When I started the work placement and met my amazing key contact in Hachette, she went above and beyond.

“She put in a lot of time, effort and care to make sure I met everybody that I needed to meet, and that I made the most out of my time spent on the course and during the placement.”

Dan Monnery, Northumbria University pro-vice chancellor – external affairs, adds: “We are pursuing an ambitious new chapter in collaboration with New Writing North to establish the Centre for Writing in Newcastle.

“This dynamic space will bring the creative industries together with education, skills and research to help build an inclusive economy and drive social mobility.

“It will provide better opportunities for individuals from the region to engage with writing and publishing.

“We’re proud to share Hachette UK has renewed and expanded its support to Northumbria University’s students, increasing its scholarship commitment to support more students each year.”

Northumbria University partners with alumni, businesses and charitable supporters to provide a range of financial initiatives, mental health and wellbeing services, and community-based projects to make participation and progression in higher education more achievable for academically talented students, regardless of their social or economic circumstances.

To find out more and support its work, email [email protected].