When Chae enrolled on the BTEC National Extended Diploma in Creative Media Practice (Level 3), he knew he had a passion for media but was still discovering where that passion might lead. Today, he has worked on some of the UK’s most recognisable television programmes, travelled internationally with major productions, and built a successful career in the television industry. He credits his college course with providing the foundations that helped him take those first important steps into the creative industries.
During his time on the course, Chae developed a wide range of practical skills, including camera operation, video production and editing. He gained experience using industry-standard software such as Adobe Premiere Pro and explored a variety of creative disciplines, from filmmaking to animation and graphic design. The broad nature of the course allowed him to discover new interests while building the confidence to pursue a future in media.
One of the opportunities that proved to be a turning point in Chae’s journey came through a college competition run in partnership with a local video production company. Students were invited to submit a video, and Chae’s entry was chosen, earning him a work experience placement. What began as three days of work experience quickly developed into paid employment. Chae continued working with the company throughout college and during university holidays and still freelances with them today alongside his television work.
Reflecting on his success, Chae believes this experience highlights the importance of making the most of every opportunity. “I could have easily put less effort into the competition video, but I decided to really commit to it. Winning that opportunity led to my first job in the creative industry and opened up even more opportunities in the future.”

Alongside classroom learning, Chae also took advantage of unique experiences offered through the college, including two-week work placement in Malta. Working at a live television studio, he gained valuable industry experience alongside a production team and even secured his first on-screen TV credit. The experience gave him an early insight into the fast-paced environment of television production and helped reinforce his ambition to work in the industry.
Since then, Chae’s career has gone from strength to strength.
Among his proudest achievements is working as a chaperone on the hugely popular reality television show Love Island. The role took him to Mallorca for the summer series and later to South Africa for Love Island All Stars, giving him the chance to work behind the scenes on one of television’s biggest productions.

He has also worked on the live final of I’m A Celebrity South Africa, supporting contributors including Sir Mo Farah and David Haye while working alongside the production team behind presenters Ant and Dec. For Chae, these opportunities represent the result of hard work, perseverance and a willingness to step outside his comfort zone.
He credits much of his success to building relationships, being proactive and remaining open to new experiences. “One of the biggest things I’ve learned is the importance of putting yourself out there and building relationships. You can’t always control when an opportunity comes along, but you can make sure you’re ready when it does.”

Although his career began with a focus on filming and editing, Chae’s journey has since expanded into television production, and he is now exploring opportunities within casting. His story demonstrates how a strong educational foundation, combined with determination and a positive attitude, can lead to exciting and unexpected career paths.
His advice to current students is simple: embrace every opportunity, stay open-minded and never stop creating. “You don’t always have to know exactly where you want to end up straight away. Keep learning, keep creating and continue doing the things you enjoy.”
From college projects and work experience placements to international television productions, Chae’s journey is a powerful example of how passion, hard work and seizing opportunities can turn a creative ambition into a successful career.
To find out more about our Media courses here: Media – Grantham College










