Our new Media Makeup Tutor, Katie Ford, brings industry knowledge to the classroom. We spoke to Katie earlier this week about her journey from school to teaching. Katie has always had an interest in teaching, as well as an equal passion for the industry, in particular working in TV and Film.
“I started working at Chesterfield College in January 2024. I have worked at a college in Stratford and Solihull before. I just really enjoyed it. As much as I love working in the makeup industry, the college allows me to be around my family and prioritise my personal life as well as work.
From university straight into work
I started my makeup passion in sixth form whilst studying Fashion and Textiles. I started doing makeup on the models whilst on the course. After that, I went onto a Level 3 Makeup course and then I went to university (The London College of Fashion) to focus more on prosthetics and wigs. That’s how I got into the more TV and Film side of things. From all the skills I gained at university, I got a job straight after graduating.
Working on Bridgerton
My first job was on Bridgerton. Every day was different. I didn’t know what to expect as it was my first TV job so it was quite fast-paced. You start as a trainee, then a junior and work your way up to an artist the more experience you get.
My favourite job was the one I recently worked on. It was on a film called Five Pounds of Pressure and just came out in America last week. We worked on that in Manchester but it was set in New York. I think that’s why I liked it because it was something completely different and with a great team.
Combining teaching and the industry
I started teaching at Stratford when I left university so I have always combined the world of tv and film and education. The industry was quite quiet then as it was COVID-19, but I still work in the industry where I can, part-time when I’m not working at the college.
Being creative in the classroom
I go wherever the work takes me, staying local where possible. Recently I have been working in Birmingham for a games company. It’s nice to be creative at college and on personal projects, with tv and film, you have a brief and have to stick to it.
Sharing experiences
It’s great that I get to bring my industry experience into the classroom. I think it’s beneficial for the students as I don’t just focus on one thing, I can share my experiences of wig making, fashion, and working in theatre, bridal, tv, and film.
When I look back to when I was at college, I wasn’t aware of how big the industry was or what it entailed, so it’s nice I can share that knowledge and experience. It made me want to teach and share my experiences with the students.”