SFX graduate secures job on Doctor Who

Special Effects (SFX) for Film and TV student Jodie Tinsley, 21, graduated in 2020 and had secured a dream job on Doctor Who before the end of her degree.

Thanks to networking opportunities as part of the course, Jodie met a contact who was looking to recruit a recent graduate for the show. She joined the Doctor Who team as a Prosthetic Trainee and began her career working in the fur department, making transfers for a dog character.

“My role was to produce multiple versions of the same mask; I dyed sheets of fur in different shades to match the concept image provided by production, then applied them to a silicone mask using a pattern which had to be rigidly adhered to in order to guarantee consistency throughout filming.

“I’ve also worked on the silicone station producing pieces for different characters. This role involves working on the stages from cleaning the mould to getting a successful pull. Within these stages is pigmenting the silicone to match the concept image and time management plays an important part, as you have to consider curing times and room for any errors that may occur,” Jodie explains.

The SFX for Film and TV degree gave Jodie plenty of experience working in a wide range of specialisms, which broadened her career opportunities in the industry and helped her land a job in her preferred area of fur work on the show. She also had the confidence to apply other techniques and skills acquired throughout the course into other areas of her work.

“The course taught me lots of different techniques and processes like fur work, which gave me all around experience and knowledge of materials and processes to take with me into the industry,” she said.

“The best thing about the course was the working environment. Alongside the amazing facilities the course had to offer, inside the studio everyone supports each other and learns from one another. The tutors were always on hand to give advice and help which guided me through the course from start to finish.

“If you have a passion for SFX then this is the course for you. This course provides the ideal grounding and experience you’ll need to progress into the industry. You’ll also have fun on your journey by creating lots of cool things surrounded by supportive and experienced tutors!”

Find out more about Special Effects for Film and TV degrees at the University of Bolton in Greater Manchester. We’re proud to be known for our teaching supportive learning environment and award-winning Student Services; welcome to #UniAsItShouldBe.

*Complete University Guide in 2021, 2020 and 2019 - North West region