National awards night comes to Southampton for first time in 15 years

On Friday 4 April, hundreds of students from across England will visit Solent’s city-centre campus – in the University’s iconic Spark building – to celebrate their achievements and connect with their peers. Over three days, SonarEvents – Solent's award-winning, student-run live events society – will take the lead in running a series of interactive activities alongside a prestigious awards ceremony.

Around 100 Solent students from courses including BA (Hons) Television Production, CGI and Visual Effects, Live Event Technology and Photography will get hands-on experience of successfully running a live event of this scale – not to mention one of the most popular events in the sector.

Every aspect of the event will be overseen by students, from lighting and graphics to videography and sound, and everything in between. The scale of the event gives students the opportunity to flex their existing skills while learning new ones, adding impressive practical experience across a diversity of roles to their CVs.

The NaSTA Awards invite students from universities all over the UK to come together alongside professionals to celebrate their successes and network with industry figures. Each year, around 45 student-run TV stations enter the awards, which are the only – and longest-running – of their kind.

Students will be supported by the University’s dedicated teaching staff, who are equally as excited about this prestigious event coming to Southampton. Dr Stuart Joy, Course Leader Film and Television, says:

“Hosting the NaSTA Awards at Southampton Solent University underscores our commitment to nurturing the next generation of creative professionals. This prestigious event not only celebrates excellence in student broadcasting but also aligns with our work-ready ethos by offering hands-on experience and invaluable exposure to the vibrant film and television industry.”

Not only is this event a unique opportunity for students to boost their practical skills, but it’s a chance for them to showcase all they are capable of to a large-scale audience. BA (Hons) Television Production student and Host Officer for the project, Will Swain says:

"This event will help so many students with preparation for their careers, providing an experience like no other - it's definitely one for the CV!

"Throughout the weekend there will be opportunities for students to meet and network with industry professionals through TV and Media, where anything is possible - from offers of work experience to futures jobs for graduates."

This is the first time in 15 years that NaSTA has come to Southampton, and marks Solent’s very first foray into hosting it. It’s thanks to SonarEvents that the University is embracing this opportunity, as their winning bid to host – including a programme of bespoke events – wowed the selection committee.

The 52^nd National Student Television Conference and Awards will take place at Southampton Solent University Friday 4 to Sunday 6 April 2025. Find out more here.