Maverick TV is a TV and production company working from offices in London, Birmingham and Los Angeles. Current broadcasts in the UK include Embarrassing Bodies, Chrisley Knows Best, Stephen Fry: Out There, Gok Does Panto and Long Live Britain. 

Joshua Petitdemange, a final year psychology student, spent two weeks in London at Maverick TV with Paul Woolf.

Joshua was based in Maverick’s Development Department where he helped behind the scenes with the research and development of new shows and ideas.

They talk to us about the benefits of work experience and how to get into a career in TV.

Even though I studied Psychology at University, I knew I wanted to pursue a career within TV. In my final year I knew I had to put myself out there and apply for work experience.

At University, I presented for two years on Guild TV and moved towards production management in my final year which I really enjoyed. This work experience role within research and development has further cemented my interest in this area.

I have been involved in the development of various shows, researching anything from licences needed for monster trucks to the work of the Home Office. I have also been a runner on shoots and gained a better understanding of how the whole industry works.

In this industry, networking is really important and I have been able to do this over the past two weeks.

I have found the work experience really worthwhile. I recommend putting yourself out there and trying lots of people but remember there is a fine line between appearing keen and appearing desperate.

This experience has not only given me new skills and experiences, but it has allowed me the chance to network widely and meet influential people.

Josh has fitted in really well and has done some great work. This is a difficult sector to get in to and word-of-mouth recommendations hold a lot of weight.

As well as looking for students with a lot of skills and competencies, I also look for an engaging covering letter. When applying for roles, identify the right person and contact them directly. The reality of the sector is that timing can often be crucial.

For more information, please visit www.mavericktv. co.uk