Lights, Camera, Convention! Our First Media Studies Student Conference at Disneyland® Paris

This year marked an exciting new addition to our Student Conventions programme — Media Studies — and it certainly did not disappoint.

With invaluable insight from media giants ITN and Disney, alongside strong curriculum guidance from our education advisor, students were given a unique opportunity to see media theory come to life in one of the world’s most powerful media environments: Disney.

Media Theory in Action

We began the day with Jonathan Stephens, Head of Media & English at Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys, who brought a sharp curriculum focus to the conference.

Jonathan explored how key media theories can be applied in practice within a global conglomerate like Disney — and specifically within the destination of Disneyland® Paris. As the author of the free learning resources distributed to students, he guided attendees through the four core areas of Media Studies, highlighting exactly where and how these concepts could be observed during their visit.

From representation and audience to industry and media language, students were encouraged to look beyond the surface and analyse Disney through an academic lens — bridging classroom learning with real-world application.

Inside Modern Journalism with ITN

Students then heard from Lisa Campbell, Communications Director at ITN, one of the world’s leading news and media production organisations.

Lisa delivered a fascinating session on the foundations of credible journalism in today’s fast-moving digital landscape. She explained how ITN relies on its global network of journalists to provide eyewitness reporting and rigorous verification — ensuring accuracy and trust remain at the heart of content creation.

Students gained insight into how stories are shaped and formatted for different audiences across multiple platforms, and how news organisations adapt to meet the demands of 24-hour media consumption.

Media Synergy & The Power of Partnerships

Nick Webb from Disney Destinations rounded out the industry insight by exploring how his team collaborates with a wide range of media partners and platforms to promote Disney products.

With multiple Disney “universes” appealing to diverse audiences, Nick demonstrated how media synergy plays a crucial role in strengthening brand messaging. Students discovered how partnerships are developed strategically across platforms, creating cohesive campaigns that maximise reach and engagement while maintaining the magic of the Disney brand.

From Theory to Reality

The conference offered students far more than guest speakers — it provided a powerful opportunity to connect theory with practice in a living, breathing media environment.

As our first Media Studies Convention, it set the bar incredibly high. The enthusiasm, thoughtful questions and analytical discussions throughout the sessions proved just how valuable experiences like this are in bringing the subject to life.

We’re excited to see this convention grow — and we can’t wait to welcome the next cohort of aspiring media professionals.

Who joined this year’s conference?

Students from colleges across the UK travelled by coach or air to Paris and stayed at the Disney Hotel Cheyenne.  Along with a 2 day, 2 Park pass, students also benefited from the Extra Magic Hour and some took advantage of their full time coach to take them on an excursion into Paris.

What did students learn?

Along with the unique opportunity to learn from top brands and industry experts, focused learning resources were also available to download prior to the event.  These are designed to use within the resort to boost learning outcomes. 

The event and resources are designed by educational and industry professionals to align with Media Studies courses at GCSE and A-Level

Don't miss out in 2027

We run our Media Studies alongside our popular Business Studies and Travel & Tourism conferences each January at Disneyland® Paris.  This gives colleges the opportunity to team up departments, making travel costs more affordable.

Media Studies Student Convention 2027
26-29 January 2026
4-day/3-night package

Business Studies Student Convention 2027
26-29 January 2026
4-day/3-night package

Travel & Tourism Student Convention 2027
26-29 January 2026
4-day/3-night package

Register your interest in these live educational conferences today →