Jake Tripney
Castle Rock Sixth Form alumnus Jake Tripney credits his time in Sixth Form with sparking a passion for filmmaking, setting him on a path to a successful career in the film and television industry. Studying Media, History, and French, Jake’s experience with the Media course proved transformative.“I discovered filmmaking during a short film module as part of the BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Creative Digital Media Production at Castle Rock Sixth Form.,” Jake recalls. “It was the first time I’d ever made a short film, and it introduced me to a world I didn’t know I could turn into a career.” Supported and encouraged by staff, Jake contacted local football clubs for a filming location and landed Derby County’s Pride Park stadium. “As a 16/17-year-old, having an entire stadium to myself was surreal—it was a turning point where I realised filmmaking could be my job.”
Jake went on to study Film Production at the University of Salford, where he developed his practical skills, creating multiple short films and working on award-winning projects like Ceaseless. This short film, which Jake shot as the cinematographer, earned accolades including "Film of the Year" at Salford and nominations at the RTS North West Student Television Awards.
Now, Jake is an established freelancer in the camera department for Film/TV productions, working on shows like Coronation Street, Hollyoaks, and Channel 4’s The Gathering. He also runs a production company, Fivefold Media, where he collaborates on corporate videos, music videos, and short films.
Reflecting on his journey, Jake shares, “It’s a tough industry, and freelancing comes with challenges, but I’m proud to have built a sustainable career doing something I love. Castle Rock gave me the first push, and I’ve run with it ever since.”
