Bristol has been the at the heart of boomsatsuma since it launched with 11 students in 2011. It has gone on to become an award-winning independent educator for local Creative Industries employers. Over 500 students return this Autumn across five Bristol centres to study Extended Diplomas or Degrees.

The Fence, a short film directed by Will in 2022, was filmed in South Bristol, featuring local actors. It has gained national acclaim, with a widespread cinema release and now a network broadcast.

It follows a council estate kid who sets out to settle a score with some local thieves on the streets of Bristol amid motorbikes, fast cars and 1980s music.

Will teaches Film and Television at boomsatsuma’s base at The Bottle Yard Studios. He comments:

"I live really close to The Bottle Yard Studios and have a close affinity with this area, which was a key part of my inspiration behind The Fence. I’m hoping that its South Bristol location, with local actors (and myself) will inspire people from the area.

"I'm truly honoured to be part of the Film and Television team at boomsatsuma. I aim to bring my own filmmaking experiences to the course, sharing what I know with the students. Coming from South Bristol and making the film in South Bristol, I am well aware of how hard it can be finding your way, especially in an industry that can very often times seem well out of reach."

“I’m proud that Channel 4 is broadcasting The Fence and looking forward to bringing my 'real life’' practical experiences and passing them on to be of good use to the students."

Strong ties with local business and industry professionals have underpinned boomsatsuma’s delivery of skills training since day one. The recent addition of Will to the College teaching team bolsters the connection to successful Bristolians and will continue to inspire students going on to careers in the region’s expanding creative sector.