Rough House is a dynamic, forward-looking company that has gone from strength to strength since it was formed nine years ago in 1998. Its success has been based on an innovative approach to media and presentation training. We believe encounters with the media should not be feared but regarded as an opportunity to deliver key messages. No matter how bad a situation might seem, there is always something positive to be gained from it.

Our strength is our background in news and documentary making. Every member of Rough House is a senior journalist with experience of working at the highest level in the media, from television and radio to newspapers and magazines. It means we can provide training for any type of interview for broadcast or print, from the hostile to the purely informative, for crisis management or a pro-active campaign.

Rough House courses are individually designed to meet the client's exact needs. To provide the closest possible 'fit', we carry out extensive research into the company, the sector, and the issues they face. The emphasis is on the practical, with each course featuring a wide range of interview exercises based on realistic news scenarios.

Uniquely in media training, the team consists of three people - a Lead Instructor, an Interviewer and a Producer. This is to ensure each course is as challenging and thorough as possible.

Feedback is given throughout the sessions. In addition, each participant receives a DVD copy of their exercises together with a detailed and constructive written appraisal. They are also given a set of course notes to help them prepare for future interviews and presentations. Further confidential advice is sent to the client on the suitability of individual trainees for different types of media contact.

At the end of the course, Rough House trainees are able to face media interviews with greatly increased confidence, a full understanding of what the journalist wants, and the skills to ensure that key messages are communicated in the most effective way.

Just as important, they learn that encounters with the media are a chance to promote their organisation and its image.

In other words, that every interview should be regarded as: