How a Former CBeebies Producer's Virtual Career Talk Is Inspiring the Next Generation of UK Talent

Former CBeebies Producer Bruce Turner Inspires Pupils at Gaywood Primary School During Virtual Call

There was great excitement when a former CBeebies producer shared stories from his television career with children at a school in Gaywood.

Bruce Turner joined pupils from Years 4 to 6 at Gaywood Primary virtually via Microsoft Teams, as part of a series of career conversations organised by the Raising Aspirations Programme.

Mr Turner, who was born with cerebral palsy, worked on the BBC children’s series Something Special, which celebrated the achievements and potential of youngsters with disabilities, before moving to Channel 4’s 24 Hours in A&E, and then Dragonfly’s Ambulance.

He is also the creative director of his own company, Proud Mary Productions, which makes charity appeal films.

“Gaywood Primary School takes part in the Raising Aspirations Programme run by the Ambition Institute,” said Neil Mindham, executive head teacher at the school.

“They hold frequent meetings online, where children get the chance to meet adults working in various careers, and chat to them about their jobs.

“It is really exciting for the children, and gets them thinking about their lives beyond the classroom, and what careers they might have a passion for.”

The session with Mr Turner was facilitated by Michelle Parry, who is one of the organisers at Raising Aspirations.

“Bruce spoke about his career in the BBC, and also about the skills needed for him to succeed,” added Mr Mindham. “He spoke a lot about his travelling and time spent away, which the children saw as an exciting opportunity.

“Bruce spoke about the shows he has worked on, which some children knew about and were able to ask questions on.

“The children found it interesting learning how a producer works with so many other important people to get TV shows to come to life. They were also interested in learning about his time at CBeebies – something that many children were familiar with.”

Other career conversations taking place at Gaywood over the past months have featured an author, a perfumer, a cardiologist, account managers, and even a TikTok star.

“Throughout the rest of the year, we will get the opportunity to sign up to the next round of Career Conversations when they become available,” said Mr Mindham.

“It is always an exciting time for children to learn about important careers, and finding out who we will be meeting.”