Preston-based Skiddle launches training programme with the University of Salford

Event guide and ticket agent Skiddle has launched a new training programme in partnership with the University of Salford in an effort to prepare students for the world of work.

Preston-based Skiddle will work alongside the university to give third-years studying journalism the chance to undertake training and gain work experience.

The company’s head of content and communication, Jimmy Coultas, said: “It’s great for Skiddle to be involved directly with one of the leading universities in the country for journalism, tapping into this huge resource of talent and helping them to achieve their degrees.”

Five people on the course will be given places on the training programme, which will see them producing website content and writing news. The students’ work with Skiddle will count toward their final degree qualification and two will be offered job placements at the firm’s HQ.

Paul Broster, the University of Salford’s director of journalism, said: “Work placements are an integral part of our journalism courses at Salford and I’m delighted that Skiddle has joined the many media partners we work with to enhance not only the students’ experience at Salford but also their employability.”

Skiddle has previously worked with the university to offer opportunities for it students. In the last year, former graduate Becca Frankland completed an internship with the ticketing company that led to a full-time position.

Head of content Jimmy continued: “Skiddle [has] already benefitted from working in partnership with the University of Salford after taking on Becca as an intern last year.”

Speaking further about the new deal, he said: “We have tailored this training programme to directly benefits the students and give them vital, practical experience which will prepare them for potential freelance and paid roles when they graduate in 2016.

“We’re looking to build a long-term relationship with the university where we help develop the country’s leading music journalists of tomorrow, and this is the next step in doing that.”