Maddy Parkin - Careers Podcast

Aspirations and Future Planning / November 30th, 2023

Maddy Parkin - Careers Podcast

Maddy Parkin, 32. Photographer running a business specialising in wedding photography. My main job role is taking photos of my customers' weddings, however, there is a lot of work that goes into this: editing in creative software, creating online galleries, marketing, blog posts, liaising with customers, writing and amending contracts and creating shot lists, arranging client meetings, and more. I have been a Photographer for 9 years. I've specialised in weddings for one year. My passion is creativity, and I feel my job encompasses all of this. I love my job, because not only do I get to witness happy couples getting married, but I can work flexibly around my family, choosing my own hours and setting my own deadlines. Being a Photographer definitely doesn't come without its challenges, however, it has been extremely rewarding for me personally, getting to do what I love every day.

Celebrating Stanley / September 30th, 2025

Thomas's Celebration of Stanley

Thomas was born in Shotley Bridge Hospital, but grew up in Shield Row, one of the villages surrounding Stanley. He is 28 years old and was once a Stanley Town Councillor. Read his thoughts on Stanley's present and future here...

Aspirations and Future Planning / January 15th, 2025

Supporting our Young People into University - Our Guide

One key talking point when visiting Newcastle University on our recent trips, was discussing the range of routes and support available to students from varying backgrounds, to ensure that they can still access the opportunities that more privileged students can access. This ranges from reduced grade offers, to financial support whilst at university, to a support network of similar students before they begin university; we have collated this helpful guide of some of these access schemes available in the North East.

Youth Social Action / December 17th, 2025

Celebrating Stanley / December 17th, 2025

'Celebrating Stanley 2025' - Heritage Project Film

A celebration of Stanley’s heritage, voices, and community. Over nine months, this project brought generations together to preserve local history and honour the town’s past, present, and future.