Film and digital media students from Wiltshire College & University Centre were given behind-the-scenes access at Castle Combe Circuit during the venue’s annual pre-season media day.
Students were invited by Castle Combe Racing Club to help capture photography and video content alongside professional photographers and media teams ahead of the 2026 racing season.
The group was given access to the paddock, pit lane and trackside areas to create content for both the racing club and their own portfolios.
Students taking part included Thalia Tuck, Callum Hillier, Harris Eastman, Vitalii Yahoda and Sam Budgell, supported by media technician Frankie Broadhead.
During the visit, students worked in a live motorsport environment capturing high-speed track action as well as behind-the-scenes images of teams and drivers preparing for the new season.
Callum Hillier, 17, from Calne, said the experience helped improve both his confidence and technical skills.
He said: “It was a really welcoming environment and we were treated like professionals. I developed my camera skills and learned new techniques I can use in future work, but also became more confident speaking to people and taking photos in public.”
Sam Budgell, 17, from Devizes, described the day as one of the highlights of the course so far.
He said: “It was so much fun and felt like combining two of my interests. Being able to get so close to the cars and drivers and capture content throughout the day was incredible. It made me feel like a professional.”
Students also developed practical skills including camera tracking, shutter speed control and adapting to changing conditions while working around professional media teams.
Vitalii Yahoda, 18, from Corsham, said: “There was so much energy. Everyone was working on cars, driving or taking photos. I learned more about camera settings and really enjoyed being part of that environment.”
The media day forms part of preparations for the upcoming racing season and brings together teams, drivers and media crews to create promotional content ahead of the calendar launch.
Cat Dall’Occo, Racing Club Manager at Castle Combe, said the club remained committed to supporting emerging talent and providing opportunities for students to gain real-world experience in the industry.
Kate Samways, Deputy Head of Creative Arts, Media and Performance at Wiltshire College & University Centre, said the visit gave students valuable experience working alongside professionals while helping them build their portfolios and prepare for future careers in the creative industries.
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