Andover English Language students stand out on Channel 5’s ‘The Wright Stuff’
Andover College English Language students once again joined the live audience for Channel 5’s popular magazine programme, ‘The Wright Stuff’. Students saw panellists Jonathan Ansell from G4, stand-up comedian Zoe Lyons, ‘Yorkshire Vet’ Julian Norton and host Matthew Wright discuss diverse, topical subjects live on air.
Topics debated ranged from serious questions over whether Britain should stop selling weapons to Saudi Arabia if there is a chance they are used to kill civilians in Yemen, to thoughtful debates on whether village life can be nastier than urban dwelling. Student Charlotte Duffy got involved in this discussion, challenging the views of Matthew Wright by delivering a confident and articulate insight on the positive aspects to living in a village.
This one of a kind opportunity provided AS students with specific insight on the spoken language and how it is used in the media and press from industry experts. As well as watching the panellists discuss stories from the day’s papers, Matthew Wright also held a bespoke 30-minute question and answer session after the show wrapped. Students asked about his most difficult interview to date and his past training in journalism, amongst other interesting questions that were each met with helpful responses.
Rob Price, A Level English Language lecturer and Curriculum Leader commented: “The discussion points allowed students to broaden their knowledge and understanding of how topics are represented and contested in the media, and how reactions to these topics form as a result. Students were also able to view the recording of the show in the production gallery, providing our learners with a strong insight into the multitude of potential future career paths available in this industry.”
Following the programme, Matthew Wright tweeted Andover College to compliment the students, saying: “Great to have such charming, engaged young people on the show!!” English Language students are regulars to the set of the programme, with this being the sixth year the students have had the valuable experience of seeing a live TV broadcasting in action.
English Language, amongst other A Levels all have a 100% pass rate which Rob Price largely believes is down to the trips and visits that maximise the learning experience on the course. He continues: “We contextualise learning for our students, taking the theory out of the classroom, preparing them for the real world and higher study.”
For further information on our full range of English courses, come to our next Open Event on Wednesday 16th November, 4:30pm- 8:00pm. Book a place now: https://www.andover.ac.uk/open-days/