Bristol communications agency Purplefish has teamed up with the organisers of next month’s Bristol Technology Festival to launch a scheme offering budding writers, photographers and videographers the chance to get valuable, paid training and work experience.
The festival, which runs from October 10-15, will bring together events, people and communities to share, learn and explore the technology developed in the city and across the region. 
This year’s theme is ‘changing the face of tech’, with a strong emphasis on taking tangible action beyond simply talking about a lack of diversity in the industry.
To underscore this, some of the content created by the five young people in work experience placements during the event will explore this important topic.
Purplefish is inviting over-16s with an interest in pursuing a content-based career to apply for the placements, which will involve 20 hours of work across the week paid at £9.50/hour.
The trainees will work closely with an experienced member of the Purplefish team, which is operating as Bristol Technology Festival’s official communications partner.
Bristol Technology Festival organiser Marty Reid, who also heads the city’s Engine Shed innovation hub, said: “Our initiative with Purplefish offers young content creatives a tremendous opportunity to explore some of the most pressing issues facing our sector today, as well as gaining valuable insight into the latest innovations and trends in the region’s tech space.” 
Established 10 years ago, Purplefish is a content, PR, social media and events communications specialist built on a strong foundation of technology industry expertise.
Its highly experienced team prides itself on strong involvement within the Bristol community and this latest initiative underlines its commitment to providing local talent with a platform to build career-enabling experience.
Purplefish founder Joanna Randall, pictured, added: “We know how difficult it can be to break into this line work, where experience is often demanded by employers as a pre-requisite to taking on new hires.
“That is why we will be providing five trainees with full training, access to experienced team members and a reference on completion of the placement.”
Indeed, no previous professional experience or specific knowledge is required – all we ask is that applicants demonstrate a keen interest in Bristol and technology, a can-do attitude, strong work ethic and enthusiasm.
Applicants should submit a piece of writing of 500 words or less on a personal passion, accompanied by two drafted social posts of the same theme to hello@purplefish.agency before September 24.
Successful candidates will be expected to meet the Purplefish team and attend a training session before the event. Event tickets, transportation and equipment will be provided.
