Gemma Morris studied A-Levels at Richmond upon Thames College between 2000–2002, gaining A grades in Sociology, Photography and Film Studies. She went on to study a BTEC Foundation degree in Documentary Film Making at the UAL London College of Communication (formerly the London College of Printing) followed by a BA Hons in Journalism from which she graduated with first class honours. After a work experience placement at Radio Jackie, Gemma freelanced at ITN before joining Sky News radio as an intern. She then joined the multi-media network on a full time basis, working in Sky’s digital department before successfully screen testing for television. After presenting the bulletins on both Sky News and Channel Five, she now presents, produces and reports on Sky’s technology show, Swipe.
Gemma places great importance on the influence that studying at Richmond upon Thames College had on her education and future career. “I wanted to study subjects that were both interesting and relevant and my school’s sixth form college simply didn’t offer me the choices that RuTC did,” she explains. “I immediately loved the more adult college environment compared to school, and really enjoyed my courses as they were taught by professionals with a passion for their field. It was refreshing to research so many topics in depth and I also really enjoyed using the fantastic facilities. I spent a lot of time honing my photography skills in the dark room and began to get a real enjoyment out of capturing human and social behaviour on film. As well as this, my sociology lessons helped me to understand people and their emotions and the subject as a whole became fascinating to me.”
Gemma’s passion for understanding and capturing human emotions led her to her foundation degree in Documentary Film Making and she hasn’t looked back since. Her role as presenter on Swipe sees her traveling across the UK and Europe, reporting on the latest advances in technology and the effects these have on individuals and society as a whole.
“I absolutely credit Richmond upon Thames College for helping me to develop the key traits that a journalist needs,” Gemma says. “I had a brilliant two years there and I’ll always be grateful to my lecturers for setting me on my career path. Going to college and taking what were at the time less traditional A-Levels was the start of what has been an incredible journey for me and a choice I’m extremely glad I made.”
Gemma returned to the college in March 2015 to deliver an inspirational guest talk to film and media students, sharing her wealth of experience in broadcasting with the journalists and presenters of the future. She was also the guest speaker at the college’s 2015 Student Awards Ceremony.