Kirsten Haines

The college has plenty of resources for students. We spent a lot of time in The Box, where we had a full lighting & sound rig and could develop skills on industry-grade software. The majority of the work was practical- learning new skills by doing them.

Why did you choose this course?

After completing the Level 2 Music, I decided to apply to the Theatre & Event Technology as I felt this course would help me develop my knowledge of behind the scenes of Music & Theatre events.

Why did you choose Kendal College?

Kendal was the closest college to where I live, but it also has a really great reputation for Creative Arts.

Was College like you had expected. If not, why?

To be honest, I thought there would be a lot of written work like school, but the majority of the work was practical and we learnt new skills by doing them -working on projects rather than just talking about them!

What did you most enjoy about College life?

I think college is a really good place to learn, because I felt comfortable and supported by all the tutors and the students.

What opportunities did you have as a student at the College?

We had the opportunity to visit London and speak to industry professionals like the Head of Sound at ‘Hamilton’ which is the biggest show on the West End at the moment, and we also had the opportunity to work creatively on our own projects throughout the year.

What was the teaching style like on your course?

Very practical based- the tutors encourage you to think creatively and expressively when working with lighting or set design and we were able to be very hands-on with all aspects of the industry that we were training for.

Can you describe a typical day at College?

I got to college at about 9am most days, and then got to relax with my friends in the cafe before we started sessions. When we were working on projects, we met and discussed the plans for the day and then got to work! We were treated like young professionals which helped us prepare for life after college.

One word you would use to describe your College experience?

Interesting! I’ve did both the Music course and the Theatre & Event Technology course and I met a lot of new friends and learnt a lot from the tutors and people around me.

What facilities did you use regularly at the College?

The college has plenty of resources for students, but we spent a lot of time in The Box, where we have a full lighting & sound rig and can develop skills on all the software we use in our industry.

What are you up to now?

I completed my college course with a distinction (even through the madness of covid-19 in 2020!) After finishing college, I got to help out with the sound and perform vocals at Ruskins every couple of weeks for about a year, but I now work full-time at Harry's Pantry, making sandwiches from 6am! A different style of production, but it is what I've found best for me. I did just recently get married at the town hall in September 2024, the first to get married in the town hall officially after it changed from county offices. I used my skills from college in sound, lighting and stage to create the best wedding party at The Venue Kendal! I also use my time to design tattoos and art for jumpers, Shirts and many more! I enjoy creating concert shirts and personalised merchandise.

If you could give one piece of advice to people considering College, what would it be?

Don’t shy away from new challenges and new skills, you never know what hidden talents you might find!