Focus on Film: Graduate Tom's journey from Sunderland to Weatherfield

Published on 19, November, 2024

Tom Chittenden, a graduate of the University of Sunderland's MA Media Production (Film and TV) course, currently works as an editor on ITV's iconic Coronation Street.

In this Q&A, he shares his experiences in crafting engaging storylines, the skills that have been essential in his journey, and how he manages the pressures of a high-turnover role. Tom also reflects on his time at the University and offers valuable advice for aspiring editors eager to carve out their own path in the industry.

Can you tell us about a memorable project you worked on during your studies?

I'd always wanted to make my own documentary and as part of the course, I produced, directed and edited a 20-minute documentary. I was very impressed by the variety of professional industry-standard equipment offered and I was able to explore new methods of media production. Using a Steadicam for the first time was a lot of fun! The course also really boosted my confidence in my own ability and I was afforded hands-on experience with the equipment.

After graduating, I was seconded to another ITV department to work on the factual documentary Tales from Northumberland with Robson Green. This job came off the back of that documentary I made at Sunderland. Shortly after this, I landed a new role as an Assistant Editor on the UK's biggest serial drama, Coronation Street.

Can you describe your current role at ITV and outline what a typical day involves?

Coronation Street has a high turnover of material, making three hours of television every week. As an editor, it’s my job to piece together stories from the street and bring them to life on screen. 

Often working alone until the final assembly of the edit, we work at pace, making fast and creative decisions, analysing scripts and performances to make the best product we can for the loyal audience while remaining true to the director/producer’s vision. 

What are the top skills you've found yourself using the most in your career?

Time management. Using your time wisely in the industry is an underrated skill. I always take the time to prepare a scene and review the rushes. Something as simple as labelling a shot as a preferred take or describing the camera set-up may seem pointless when you just want to get stuck into the edit but you’ll always be glad you took the time when you’ve a client/director/producer breathing down your neck in a viewing asking where a particular shot is (that they swear they shot!). 

Preparation is key - you’ll thank yourself later! 

Are there any common misconceptions about working as an editor that you would like to address?

It doesn’t have to be a stressful profession. If you don’t have a clear idea of what the client/director/producer wants to achieve, ask again. They’d rather you ask than waste everyone’s time by turning in work that isn’t what they envisage. 

Of course, there are stressful moments when the pressure is on but if you manage your time wisely and be honest about where your strengths lie, you’ll be fine. 

Don’t create stress for yourself. i.e. If your CV states that you use Adobe After Effects to a ‘high level’, you better be at least ‘medium level’ if a client requires a quick turnaround. 

What advice would you give to current students or recent graduates who aspire to pursue a career in editing?

Make the most of every opportunity that comes your way and be motivated to seek out the next one. Be prepared to have your work critiqued - don’t get disheartened from negative feedback, learn from it but also back yourself and be ready to justify your editing decision. 

Look after your body - buy a quality chair, move around, get outside and stretch! 

If you could give your university self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Don’t get too attached to one particular project. Make it the best you can with your current skills, learn from it and move on to the next. 

We all have gaps in our knowledge, and the University of Sunderland is a great place for you to fill those gaps.

In its subject rankings, The Guardian University Guide 2025 has placed the University of Sunderland third for Media and fifth for Film Production in the UK.

If you are interested in studying Film Production at the University of Sunderland, find out more here. 

For MA Media Production (Film and TV), click here. 

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