A former University of Worcester student has secured a new internship with Severn Arts just weeks after graduating, thanks to a partnership of several organisations leading the Local Voices Creative Choices project in the City.
Ashley Gregory, who recently graduated with a Fine Art degree from the University, has been appointed as Assistant Producer Intern at Severn Arts. The role has been created to give University of Worcester students and graduates valuable experience within the creative industries while helping to support arts and cultural activity across the city.
Ashley first connected with Severn Arts after attending a Local Voices Creative Choices (LVCC) networking event, an initiative that brings together education providers, employers and creative organisations to support emerging talent in Worcestershire. She later joined the LVCC Skills and Talent panel as a student representative, helping to ensure student voices were heard in discussions about the future of Worcestershire’s creative sector.
When the opportunity to become an intern with Severn Arts arose, Ashley was quick to apply.
“I wanted to see whether I could take some of my ideas and help bring them to life,” said Ashley. “What appealed to me about the role was that every day is different. I’ve already had the chance to get involved in a wide range of projects and contribute to arts and culture in Worcester.”
Originally from Halesowen, Ashley studied at Haybridge Sixth Form before completing a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design in Dudley and then progressing to the University of Worcester to study Fine Art.
Reflecting on her time at Worcester, she said: “The biggest thing I did to support my university journey was to put myself out there and get to know the people already in the creative scene in Worcester. The confidence to do that grew through the support of the lecturers in the Art House, who challenged my artistic practice and encouraged me to think about my career after university.
“The technicians were also a significant part of my university experience, helping to turn my ambitious ideas into reality through their knowledge, expertise and patience.
“Being a course representative for two years also helped prepare me for my internship. It gave me the opportunity to attend meetings with staff, ensure my fellow students’ voices were heard and contribute to changes that enhanced the learning experience for current and future students.
“The University opened doors for me and connected me with people and opportunities that ultimately helped me secure this role.”
Ashley’s appointment comes at an exciting time for the city, with Worcester recently being named the UK’s top city for emerging creatives, with judges highlighting its strong mix of creative opportunities, cultural spaces and affordability.
Rachel Smith, Programme Producer at Severn Arts, added: “Ashley joining us as our Assistant Producer Intern is a great reflection of the opportunities that Local Voices Creative Choices creates for emerging talent.
“Through our partnership with the University of Worcester, we’re able to support graduates and students to gain real industry experience while contributing to the cultural life of the city. Ashley has already made a positive impact through her work with the programme, bringing valuable insight into student engagement, alongside her enthusiasm, creativity and commitment to Worcester’s future as a creative city.
“We’re thrilled to be working with her as the programme enters its second year.”
One recent beneficiary of the partnership is Jacob Briscombe, who graduated from the University of Worcester in 2025 with a degree in Film Studies and Screenwriting and has just completed the year-long internship at Severn Arts.
He said: “My internship with Severn Arts has honestly been an amazing experience and has given me opportunities I never imagined I would have so early in my career.
“The University of Worcester played a huge part in making the internship possible. The support and connections I’ve had through the University have continued well beyond graduating, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities that has given me.
“I’ve grown enormously over the year, both professionally and personally, and it has helped me realise that I want a career where I can work with people and support projects that have a genuine and visible impact on people.”
For information on courses at University of Worcester visit www.worcester.ac.uk or for application enquiries telephone 01905 855111 or email [email protected]