The university will play a key role in the Skills and Talent workstream, contributing to the development of a future-ready workforce across the Arc’s most dynamic sectors.

As part of its involvement, Dr Stephen Partridge, Dean of the School of Creative Arts at the University of Hertfordshire, will lead the Creative and Cultural Industries strand—helping to shape a future-facing agenda that extends far beyond traditional sectors.

While acknowledging the continued growth of film and high-end TV—particularly in hubs like Sky Elstree, BBC Studioworks,and Warner Bros. Leavesden —the University of Hertfordshire is committed to a broader and more innovative focus. Working with partners, the university will explore high-potential areas including:

• Gaming, esports, and interactive storytelling

• Animation, VFX, and immersive technologies

• Music, live events, and experiential design

• Design for future lifestyles and built environments

• Creative health and wellbeing initiatives, including social prescribing

• Community-driven cultural interventions

• Emerging intersections between creativity, technology, and sustainability

This wider lens ensures the creative strand of the AUG not only reflects the region’s strengths but also anticipates where opportunity, talent development, and investment will be most needed in the years ahead.

By aligning skills development with these evolving industries, the University of Hertfordshire and fellow universities in the AUG aim to support inclusive growth, build resilient communities, and position the Arc as a global leader in creative innovation.