Marshall Studios – Creative Industries Work Experience with Big Truck

Student Alumni Justination recording the piano

Our students recently had the incredible opportunity to gain real-world experience at the legendary Marshall Studios, a world-class recording and mixing facility where artists from across the industry come to create and collaborate. For many of our learners, simply stepping inside such a prestigious space was inspiring in itself, but the real impact came from being immersed in a professional recording process and seeing how the skills they develop at SupaJam translate directly into industry practice.

This experience came about through SupaJam’s very own Sam Coppins, who not only runs Swan Studios but is also part of the band Big Truck. Alongside Sam, the band includes Tunbridge Wells alumni Laurie Vincent (best known for performing with the notorious punk band Soft Play) and Asa Thallon. Their connection to SupaJam made the whole opportunity feel even more special for our students, who could see a clear pathway between their own studies and the careers of artists working at the highest level. Big Truck’s sessions at Marshall opened the door for our learners to observe - and in some cases join — a fast-paced, professional studio environment where collaboration, creativity, and pressure all come together.

Celebrating hard work in the production studio

Across three full-on days, Big Truck managed to record an impressive 13 songs, with SupaJam alumni Justin Myles working on keys. The sessions gave our students a rare, close-up look at how professionals balance artistry with discipline and how every decision — from tone to tempo — is shaped by teamwork and communication. Swanley student Alfie spent a full day onsite, shadowing the sessions and soaking in the atmosphere. He experienced first-hand the realities of long studio hours, rapid problem-solving, and the constant adjustments needed to keep momentum going. For a young musician, moments like this provide a learning curve that simply can’t be replicated in the classroom.

What stood out most was the balance between intensity and creativity. Students saw how professional musicians manage the pressure of tight schedules while keeping the energy high, supporting each other, and never losing sight of the bigger picture, the music itself. These lessons extend far beyond the studio: they show our learners the value of resilience, adaptability and teamwork in any creative career.

Experiences like this sit right at the heart of what SupaJam aims to achieve. Our mission has always been to bridge the gap between education and industry, giving young people genuine, hands-on opportunities that build both confidence and practical knowledge. By working alongside established musicians and technicians, students are able to see that the creative industries are not an abstract dream, but a real, tangible career path they can aspire to.

Justination hard at work recording more keys!

We’re hugely grateful to the Creative Industries Department for making this project possible, and to the SupaJam Foundation for their support with transport and accommodation, ensuring that barriers never prevent our students from accessing such transformative experiences.

And this is only the beginning. SupaJam Brighton student Tommy will be heading back into Marshall to support the mixing sessions, adding another layer to this exciting collaboration. We can’t wait to see how his involvement, and the involvement of future SupaJam students, continues to shape their journeys and bring them closer to the careers they dream of.