Buckinghamshire New University (BNU) has launched a new virtual production studio designed and integrated by CJP Broadcast, featuring a 6m x 3m high-resolution LED wall and full tracking system that mirrors professional film and broadcast environments. The facility is already being used by students across multiple disciplines, providing hands-on experience with the same advanced technologies reshaping modern production pipelines.

Lights, Camera, Education: Virtual production facility bridges the classroom-industry gap

The new studio represents a significant investment in preparing students for the evolving demands of the media and entertainment industries.

• The 1.9mm LED wall is complemented by a tracked cinema camera system, dynamic image-based lighting, and real-time rendering capabilities

• CJP's Callisto workstation powers the graphics pipeline, delivering professional-grade virtual production workflows

• The system was designed to be technically advanced while remaining accessible for teaching purposes

• Staff training was conducted at CJP's demonstration studio, ensuring instructors could begin teaching almost immediately

Cross-Discipline Adoption: The facility is attracting interest beyond traditional film programs

While initially focused on film, TV, animation and visual effects students, the studio is already seeing broader applications across the university.

• Engineering, advertising, and design departments have expressed interest in utilizing the technology

• The interdisciplinary approach mirrors industry trends where virtual production crosses traditional department boundaries

• Students began practical sessions within days of the studio's completion

• A second phase of training is planned for later this year as more departments incorporate the technology

Final Cut Benefits: This educational investment addresses growing industry demand for virtual production skills

As virtual production becomes standard practice across film and television, this installation helps close the critical skills gap between education and industry needs.

• The project was delivered on time and on budget, with CJP managing both system integration and comprehensive training

• According to Russel Stone, Dean of College at BNU, the studio is becoming "a major asset for interdisciplinary learning, skills development and employability"

• The collaborative approach between CJP and BNU ensured the facility prioritizes practical, industry-relevant experience

• As productions increasingly rely on virtual technologies, graduates with hands-on experience will have a significant competitive advantage

The Extended Shot: Educational institutions are increasingly serving as critical talent pipelines for virtual production expertise

As demand for virtual production skills continues to grow across media and creative industries, university facilities like BNU's are becoming essential training grounds for the next generation of production professionals.

The studio represents more than just new technology—it signals a fundamental shift in how film education is preparing students for an industry where the lines between physical and digital production continue to blur. With productions from indie projects to major studio films embracing virtual techniques, graduates who understand these workflows will be positioned to contribute immediately upon entering the workforce, potentially accelerating the adoption of these technologies throughout the industry.