Behind the Sound: Hands-On Work Experience in Audio Production with Factory Studios & SIREN Music
Exploring Careers in Sound Design
Sound has the power to create atmosphere, evoke emotion and bring stories to life. From film and TV to advertising and immersive spaces, every sound is carefully crafted by a team of experts to shape an experience – making the work and opportunities behind-the-scenes full of intrigue and possibility for young people.
In July 2026, young people took part in a 5-day in-person work experience with multi award-winning sound design and audio production company Factory Studios & SIREN Music. Made up of highly skilled industry professionals that push creative boundaries while embracing social responsibilities, work experience is an important part of their wider work.
“A big part of the Factory Family at its core is championing the up-and-coming talent, nurturing their skills and pushing them to be the best they can be. We want to offer that opportunity to the next generation of audiophiles and show them how many different paths there are in each of the different roles that make the company run so efficiently.”
Ethan Day, Facility Coordinator, Factory Studios & SIREN
Inside the Work Experience
With a creative portfolio of sound design and music supervision for TV, advertising, film and immersive experiences like virtual reality and rollercoasters, Factory Studios & SIREN Music provided a unique insight into the diverse world of audio production. Presentations from teams across the company gave young people a detailed overview of industry roles, tasks and responsibilities, including real insight into the skills and collaboration behind every project – before experiencing first-hand how they come together.
Not only did young people discover how to choose the perfect piece of music to bring pictures and immersive productions to life, they gained hands-on experience with sound effects, recording voiceovers, and mixing audio for a final project centred around a radio advert. Students developed teamwork, tech, creativity and organisational skills – and grew in confidence along the way.
“One of our candidates started the week off fairly quiet, but as soon as they got into the voice over booth there was a surge of confidence – they did so well, everyone wanted them to record their radio scripts.”
Ethan Day, Facility Coordinator, Factory Studios & SIREN
Learning directly from industry professionals in-person gave young people an opportunity to understand the creative and technical expertise behind the work, apply their knowledge through practical activities with specialist equipment, and experience the workplace first-hand – helping to prepare them for future careers.
“Work experience is important for young people because… it’s very different from school, so learning what’s expected in how you communicate and work together with people in these environments is super valuable life experience.”
Ethan Day, Facility Coordinator, Factory Studios & SIREN
Student Feedback
“The people who work at Factory & SIREN are extremely inclusive and friendly. I felt like I was included in their family for the week.”
Student
“I enjoyed listening to certain projects and how they worked with advert companies. The information that I got was helpful too because it broadened my perspective on what possible careers I could get into.”
Student
Work Experience Stats
Students left the work experience with a clearer picture of what a future career in the sound design and audio production industry could look like – as well as essential skills and insights to support their next steps.
Students rated their remote work experience as 4.8 out of 5 stars.
100% said they could now make an informed decision about whether they wanted to pursue a career in the industry.
91% said they were interested in a job within the organisation or sector following the completion of their placement.
100% said following their placement they have a better understanding of what skills and qualities employer are looking for.
100% said they now feel more knowledgeable about their current skills and attributes and where they want to improve.
Employer Insights
For young people:
“Ask as many questions as you can – even if you think it’s not a clever question. Make mistakes and learn from them and along with following your interests, follow your strengths and hone them.”
Ethan Day, Facility Coordinator, Factory Studios & SIREN
For employers:
“I understand how much work it can be to facilitate something like this, but in whatever capacity you can, you should.”
Ethan Day, Facility Coordinator, Factory Studios & SIREN
Discover Work Experience for Yourself
Whether you’re keen to apply for work experience or provide some for young people, head to our Work Experience Finder to get started.
Our Talks Library is also available as a resource of insights into different sectors.
Discover More Creative Career Inspiration and Experiences
Discover Creative Careers is an industry-led, government-funded programme, providing young people aged 11-24 with the support, skills and knowledge they need to build lasting careers in the cultural and creative industries. Funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), the programme aims to break down existing barriers to entry for young people from underrepresented backgrounds, whilst supporting employers, parents, careers advisers and educators to build new pathways.
Work Experience, Inspirational Talks, Broadcasts, Industry Workshops, Remote Insight Days, Creative Careers Exploration and Stand out Sessions, Industry Mixer Networking, SWAPS Work Academy and Webinars… There’s so much to explore and support.
Visit Discover Creative Careers: discovercreative.careers
Register your interest: discovercreative.careers/contact
Find creative work experience here.
