BBC producer reveals the secret of his success

A week after receiving rave reviews for BBC’s ‘Panorama’, producer Simon Gilchrist came to the University of Kent on Tuesday 12th October. He discussed his work and the importance of ‘research’ for the multimedia technology and design students at the School of Engineering and Digital Arts.

Simon directed and produced the sixty minute documentary called ‘Kids in Care’ on BBC 1 based on the work of Coventry social services. It highlighted the growing number of children that have been taken into care since the Baby P scandal. His next project is as series producer of the BBC’s ‘Great Ormond Street’ which is back following a successful run last year.

The second year multimedia students undertake a ‘digital filmmaking’ course, which teaches them the skills and theory to make a short six minute documentary. Across two terms, the students hear from a variety of industry practitioners who can give them an insight into the competitive world of television filmmaking. Lecturer Jane Milton is delighted that Simon was able to join the students. She says, “It’s a great opportunity for them to hear from a director/producer at the top of his game. I’m also keen for them to see examples of Simon’s work which show the significance of research.”