From Eastbourne Youth Radio to Sky TV: Erin’s Journey into the World of Media
Former East Sussex College student Erin Bacon has carved out an impressive career in the media industry, now working as a UI Planning Manager at Sky TV and a freelance film critic for BBC Radio, Flip Screen, and Scratch Cinema.
Erin began her creative journey studying Level 3 UAL Creative Media Production and Technology at East Sussex College, where she first discovered her passion for storytelling and broadcasting through the exciting Eastbourne Youth Radio (EYR) project.
“My experiences working on Eastbourne Youth Radio are some of my fondest memories. It was such an exciting project to work on and the first real chance I had to create a piece of media and put it out into the world to be consumed,” said Erin. “It all felt like a really huge step in the right direction for my career aspirations, plus to get to do it with your pals made it even better!”
The multi-day EYR broadcast gave Erin and her classmates the chance to explore all aspects of live media, from planning and producing to presenting and engaging with audiences.
“Having EYR over a few days gave us the chance to touch on everything, and it meant that I got to explore so many different ideas and cater to different audiences,” Erin told the College.
“Between producing and presenting a documentary about the rise of the far-right in the youth of today, a film review show for the latest cinema releases, or the Friday breakfast show, it gave me a lot of exposure to the different kinds of shows that you could create and the different audiences that you could entertain.”
Studying Creative Media at East Sussex College allowed Erin to experiment across a wide range of disciplines, helping her find her niche in the creative industry.
“I studied Creative Media Production and Technology, where we got to work on projects in everything from radio to TV, and from magazines to Photoshop. As someone who always wanted to work in the creative industry but wasn't sure exactly where I would fit, it was a brilliant opportunity to be able to throw myself head first into so many different avenues and just feel out what I enjoyed the most and found the most rewarding.”
Erin added, “It especially helped that we had really supportive tutors who treated us maturely and were super accommodating to our creativity and sometimes slightly random ideas.”
Now, in her role at Sky, Erin plays a key part in shaping the viewing experience for millions of people across the UK.
“In my current role, I help shape the TV experience by curating and merchandising everything from popular TV shows to blockbuster films to major sporting events across the Sky TV platform,” said Erin.
“I’m passionate about making it easier for people to discover something great to watch, especially during recent times when life can often feel super overwhelming. It’s a real honour to (metaphorically) be in people's homes and play a part in helping viewers unwind and find comfort through the power of entertainment at the end of a long day.”
Reflecting on her success, Erin credits her time at East Sussex College, and her early broadcasting experience, with helping her build valuable skills such as curiosity, adaptability, and confidence.
“I think the main takeaway that has helped me so far in my career is staying curious. It is important to be open-minded and ask questions, which allows you to learn new things, be adaptable and open to change, and that is certainly a trait that I picked up during my time on EYR and at college in general!”
She also encourages current students to embrace every opportunity that comes their way. “It is important to say yes. I say yes or volunteer myself for as many different projects and opportunities as I can, no matter how far out of my comfort zone! Making the most of every opportunity that comes your way is something that I find really essential, as it is the best way to learn and grow.”
Looking ahead, Erin believes creativity will always be vital in the ever-changing media landscape.
“I think the world is a very technology-focused place, especially with the rising use of AI and its capabilities. It is something that I think we will see more and more of in the media industry, and while it is something we need to be open to, it should not be at the detriment of our own creativity... Don't surrender your imagination to a computer!”
Erin’s journey is an inspiring example of where a Creative Media course at East Sussex College can lead - from student radio to a thriving career in one of Europe’s leading broadcasting and entertainment organisations.