Want to study creative media? Discover what Futureworks students say about teaching, support, wellbeing and student life in the latest National Student Survey.

music production degree

Choosing where to study creative media is about more than comparing course titles or looking at campus facilities. Whether you’re interested in animation, film, games, visual effects or a music production degree, you’ll want to know what it’s actually like to study there.

One of the best ways to find out is by listening to current students. Every year, final-year students across the UK are invited to complete the National Student Survey (NSS), sharing honest feedback about their university experience. 

The survey covers everything from teaching quality and academic support to wellbeing, learning opportunities and whether students feel heard.

The latest results show that Futureworks continues to provide an outstanding student experience, with exceptionally high levels of satisfaction across every major area of university life.

NSS

 

Why does the National Student Survey matter?

The National Student Survey is one of the UK’s most recognised measures of student satisfaction in higher education.

Unlike league tables, which often focus on research output or entry requirements, the NSS asks students directly about their own experiences. Their feedback helps future applicants understand what it’s really like to study at a particular institution.

If you’re deciding where to study, these results offer valuable insight into the things that can have the biggest impact on your university experience.

Great teaching makes a difference

One of the standout results from this year’s survey was that 95 per cent of Futureworks students agreed that the teaching on their course was good or excellent.

Creative industries evolve quickly, so it’s important to learn from lecturers who understand current industry practices while helping students develop both technical and creative skills.

Whether students are producing films, creating visual effects, designing games or developing audio projects, high-quality teaching provides the foundation for building confidence and preparing for a creative career.

Great teaching isn’t just about delivering lectures: it’s about encouraging ideas, providing constructive feedback and helping students reach their potential.

Support throughout your studies

University is an exciting experience, but it’s also natural to encounter challenges along the way. That’s why academic support plays such an important role.

In the latest NSS, 96 per cent of Futureworks students said they were satisfied with the academic support they received.

Having approachable tutors and knowledgeable staff means students can ask questions, seek guidance and receive support when working through assignments or developing creative projects.

For many students, knowing that help is available when they need it allows them to focus on developing their creativity with greater confidence.

Looking after student wellbeing

Creative courses can be both exciting and demanding. Deadlines, group projects and portfolio development all require time, effort and commitment. Equally important is having access to the right wellbeing support.

Futureworks was rated positively by 94 per cent of students for its mental wellbeing services, reflecting the college’s commitment to supporting students beyond the classroom.

When students feel supported personally as well as academically, they’re often better able to enjoy their studies, build resilience and produce their best creative work.

A place where creativity can flourish

Creative education is built on exploring ideas, experimenting with different approaches and developing your own artistic voice.

That’s why it’s encouraging that 97 per cent of Futureworks students agreed that the college supports freedom of expression.

Whether you’re developing a short film, designing a game environment, creating digital artwork or producing original music, feeling able to express your ideas is an essential part of the creative process.

An environment that values individuality encourages students to take creative risks, collaborate with others and develop work they’re genuinely proud of.

Learning beyond the classroom

Studying creative media isn’t just about completing assignments. Students also want opportunities to develop practical skills, receive meaningful feedback and feel involved in shaping their education.

In this year’s survey, nine out of ten students rated Futureworks highly for learning opportunities, assessment and feedback, and student voice. These areas make a real difference to everyday student life.

Constructive feedback helps students improve their work, while varied learning opportunities allow them to build the practical experience that employers are looking for. Feeling that your opinions are listened to also helps create a stronger sense of community.

More than a qualification

For many prospective students, university is about much more than earning a degree. It’s about building confidence, meeting like-minded people, developing professional skills and preparing for a rewarding career in the creative industries.

Founder of Futureworks Chris Mayo had this to say about the news: “It’s always fantastic to hear how valuable the Futureworks graduates find our courses – and it’s always exciting to see young people reach their full creative potential. 

“We’re proud to be able to help support them as they take their first steps towards pursuing what is a hugely rewarding and enriching career.”

If you’re considering studying creative media, these results offer reassurance that you’ll be joining a college where students feel supported, inspired and encouraged to achieve their ambitions.