West Nottinghamshire College proudly hosted its ninth annual Create Expo on Friday (27 February), welcoming leading creative and digital industry professionals to inspire students and young people from across the region.
Performing Arts student Liam Hardy acted as master of ceremonies
Held in the college’s Create Theatre within the creative arts centre, the event brought together learners, a local school and industry experts for a dynamic day of insight into careers spanning animation, graphic design, film, visual effects, gaming and character design.
Advanced Extended Diploma in Performing Arts student Liam Hardy acted as master of ceremonies, confidently introducing each guest speaker, including the college’s principal and chief executive Andrew Cropley who warmly welcomed everyone to the annual expo.
Chief executive and principal Andrew Cropley opened the Expo with a warm welcome.
Performing arts students supported activities throughout the day, while former students Michelle Carr and Porscha Manley returned to assist as front-of-house ambassadors, welcoming guests and helping ensure the event ran smoothly.
The Expo opened with documentary filmmaker and BAFTA member Sharon Walia, who spoke about creating impactful factual storytelling centred on social justice, wildlife and human interest stories. She discussed her films The Movement and The Keepers of the Pigs, the latter acquired by Netflix, and encouraged students to use their creativity to amplify underrepresented voices.
Sharon Walia spoke about storytelling centred on social justice, wildlife and human interest stories.
Multidisciplinary character designer Ian Thompson explored character-driven storytelling across 3D and interactive media, highlighting the importance of adaptability and emerging technologies, including AI-assisted design.
Ian Thompson highlighted character-driven storytelling across 3D and interactive media.
BAFTA-nominated animation director Daniel Quirke, who specialises in mixed media and stop-motion. A graduate of Middlesex University and the National Film and Television School, Daniel shared his innovative storytelling approach, combining technical experimentation with emotionally engaging narratives. His session set the tone for a day focused not only on inspiration, but also on the realities of creative practice.
Daniel Quirke specialises in mixed media and stop-motion animation.
Freelance graphic designer Emma Reed discussed her work as Head of Design and Marketing for Wild Paths Festival and Wild Fields, offering valuable insight into branding and promotional strategy across major cultural events. She reflected on collaborations with organisations including Download Festival and the National Centre for Writing, as well as her 2025 nominations at the Norfolk Women’s Marketing Awards.
Emma Reed, head of design and marketing for Wild Paths Festival and Wild Fields.
Editor and visual effects artist Gerry Lindfield took students behind the scenes of high-end television and music productions, sharing experiences from projects such as Gangs of London and Lost in London, alongside music videos for global artists. His breakdown of post-production workflows and visual effects pipelines gave learners a practical understanding of industry standards.
Editor and visual effects artist Gerry Lindfield took students behind the scenes of high-end television and music productions.
Design and media learning company specialist Anthony Hall praised the atmosphere and evolution of the Expo. He said: “The most enjoyable part of this year’s Expo was experiencing the genuine buzz in the room, from the pupils of Brunts Academy and our current learners to staff and the wide range of employers from the creative industries across Nottinghamshire.
“Nine years ago, the focus was largely inspirational guest speakers sharing their journeys and offering broad advice. Last week, however, the content felt far more immersive and practical. Our guests weren’t just telling their stories; they were breaking down real projects, sharing industry processes, and giving students a clearer picture of the skills and adaptability needed in today’s creative landscape. The evolution shows just how much the Expo, and the industry itself, has grown.”
Now in its ninth year, Create Expo continues to strengthen the college’s connections with the creative industries while equipping students with the knowledge, confidence and industry awareness to pursue successful creative careers.
Head of creative and digital Kerry Pilcher at the start of the show.