How Jimmy's Farm is giving Ipswich students a start in media

Why it matters: The partnership is giving Suffolk New College students hands-on experience in TV and media – work that students say is reshaping how they think about their futures.

The details: Jimmy Doherty and his team became an industry partner of Suffolk New College last year, committing to work on a minimum of three student-led projects annually.

One of those programmes has seen three media students take up placements with Doherty and his team since February, working in the marketing department and creating social media content. Two of them worked on the ITV show "Jimmy and Shivi's Farmhouse Breakfast", produced by Rock Oyster Media, and the students also starred in a TikTok video with TV chef Ainsley Harriott.

What they're saying: Chloe Smith, 17, said the placement had changed her career plans. "Since doing this I have realised that I want to get into marketing – rather than going into TV," she said.

Niamh Doyle, 17, worked on social media content featuring the farm's animals. "We have been doing lots of social media with the animals – working with the Jimmy's Farm marketing team," she said. "It has given me more opportunity to explore different areas."

Ruby Gooden, 18, worked on the TV show and appeared in the TikTok video with Ainsley Harriott, and said the placement could lead to further work. "I guess potentially this might lead to a job (with Jimmy's Farm) – it's all about who you know in this industry," she said, adding: "It made me way more confident."

From the farm: Lauren Dodman, head of visitor experience at Jimmy's Farm and Wildlife Park, said: "It's been great to work with the students, they have been a real help with our socials and they have integrated well into the team," she said.

Jimmy Doherty added: "The students have been fantastic and it's a real pleasure to work and support Suffolk New College and their students."

The bottom line: Through partnership, Jimmy's Farm is giving Suffolk New College students a working foothold in TV and media – experience that is already helping them decide where their careers might go next.

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