My role was within the Specialist Factual Unit's development team, a team behind groundbreaking factual TV programmes. Documentaries such as Disco: Soundtrack of a Revolution and Inside Our Autistic Minds are two landmark series I am passionate about - discussed on the DocLab training scheme.

From the start, the development team were so welcoming, and I was quickly involved in various projects. As a Junior Development Researcher, I worked closely with a Development Producer and a Development Executive. Their guidance helped me to build my skills and gain confidence - observing their work processes providing a valuable opportunity to learn about research, development and the current unscripted TV landscape.

BBC Studios is characterised by its collaborative environment and open structure. This allowed me to also interact with other professionals from different departments, including Audio and Science. I carried out various tasks, such as preparing research for commissioner meetings, contributing to toplines, and assisting with treatments. The fast pace of projects felt incredibly dynamic - with opportunities to engage in meetings with external contacts, such as historians. I also had the chance to pitch my own ideas to the team and receive constructive feedback - a vital learning experience.

One highlight was being able to attend a screening for Renaissance: The Blood and The Beauty. This series combines dramatised reconstructions, expert interviews, and a scripted portrayal of Michelangelo. Watching an episode with the production team and hearing about their experiences was informative - an ideal opportunity to see how concepts evolve into a finished programme, and how production and development are intrinsically linked.

Working with such a talented team has been a privilege, and vital for personal and professional development. I am immensely grateful to BBC Studios and the Grierson Trust for this opportunity.