Telford dad 'props' up with a change of career thanks to college

It’s never too late to unleash your creative streak – just ask Telford father-of-two Pete Hollands.

Caption: Pete Hollands pictured with a paper sculpture exhibition he completed at university, with his peers. The project included the creation of a full-scale paper horse, which was part of a display to mark the centenary of the suffragettes movement.

At the age of 34, he decided to follow his dreams of working as a prop and set maker in the film industry, and he’s already completed work on a new animated movie production.

It started back in 2015 when the former Idsall School student signed up on a BTEC level three art and design course at Telford College.

Pete, from Lightmoor, said: “It was a hard decision to have a career change, but I had the support of my wife and two girls, who knew I wasn't happy at my current job in the office supplies business.

“I've always been creative, and luckily enough for me Telford College gave me an opportunity and helped guide me through my course to reach an end goal of working in a creative industry.

“The college helped me through every step and module, and their support has been fantastic. Knowing my goals, and what I wanted to do in the future, they discussed my options and where I wanted to head in life.

“My main goal was to achieve a qualification so I could go to university and open a door to the creative world. My main aim now is to work in film, making props and scenic art, but the options are endless.”

He added: “Telford College was the start I needed to make my ambitions come true. The staff and facilities are brilliant, and I cannot thank them enough for what they have done for me.”

Pete is now studying a design for performance degree at Birmingham City University, which includes set building for events, festivals, and puppetry.

He has also worked with Wellington-based animators Robin Heap Studios on a film called Flower And The Girl, a stop-motion project in partnership with award-winning London company Breakneck Films.

Pete has created models and sets, and played an important role in the project.

Anna Dowdall, lecturer at Telford College, said: “Pete was incredibly hard working and ambitious, open minded to trying new techniques and using different materials.

“As a mature student he was totally committed to his course and career – he’s a shining example that it’s never too late to come back to college to retrain and follow your dream career.

“Pete has a fantastic career ahead of him, and we all wish him the best of luck.”