Tom Hunt

I decided to apply for the internship as I was keen to gain first-hand experience in a role that aligns with both my personal and academic interests, while developing practical skills relevant to my future vocational prospects.  

Throughout my time with the Creative Place team, I’ve contributed to initiatives including the festival scale-up programme, accessibility audits and training for cultural venues, music education programmes, and have been privileged to meet, learn from, and experience the work of some of the Tees Valley 2025 Artists of the Year.  

Across these areas, I have gained invaluable experiences in analysing both qualitative and quantitative data, engaging in meetings with internal colleagues and external partners, and contributing to the evaluation and delivery of creative programmes. I’ve developed strong communication skills through presenting findings, drafting reports, and facilitating discussions with a range of stakeholders. Ultimately, these opportunities have not only deepened my understanding of the cultural and creative sectors, but have also enhanced my ability to work collaboratively, think critically, and communicate effectively across diverse audiences.  

An incredible opportunity was a bus tour across all five Tees Valley boroughs. A memorable stop was the Teesworks industrial site, which holds the distinction of being Europe’s largest brownfield redevelopment project. This opportunity offered a unique chance to witness the transformation of Tees Valley’s industrial future, in which ground-breaking projects are shaping the future of clean energy. Another valuable experience was attending the Music Venues Trust Conference at Independent Sunderland. This event brought together industry professionals and venue operators to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing grassroots music venues. It was an inspiring space to share ideas, explore solutions for sustaining live music, and to celebrate the cultural impact of independent music venues.  

As I head into my final year at university, I’m still unsure about my future vocational path. However, the TVCA internship scheme has confirmed my strong interest in the cultural and creative field, allowing me to apply the theoretical knowledge accumulated from my degree into a practical, working environment. The insight I’ve gained from working in an office space will undoubtedly help me in whatever vocational direction I choose to take in the future.  

I would highly recommend the TVCA summer internship scheme to anyone interested in gaining hands-on experiences within a professional setting. The scheme offers a supportive and professional environment where you can develop key skills, build confidence, and gain insight into how different teams and organisations operate. Whether you have a clear idea of your future career or are still exploring your options, this experience is a valuable stepping stone that can help shape your next steps.