Brightbulb, a leading design and digital studio on the Isle of Wight, has partnered with the Isle of Wight College to introduce an exciting new initiative for aspiring designers.
The BrightStart programme offers a unique opportunity for all second-year students enrolled in the BA National Diploma in Graphic Design to gain real-world industry experience.
Through the programme, students will participate in a one-week work placement at Brightbulb’s studio in Branstone, collaborating directly with local business owners to tackle live design projects.
This hands-on experience will help students build their portfolios, enhance their CVs, and develop essential skills to kickstart their careers in the highly competitive design industry.
Matt Jeffery, Managing Director of Brightbulb, shared his inspiration for launching the programme:
“Graphic design is a challenging industry to break into, especially on the Isle of Wight, where design agencies are limited. After previously hosting work experience students, we recognised the potential to offer young designers a head-start by exposing them to the realities of a professional studio.”
“This initiative is also deeply personal for me. I began my design journey at the Isle of Wight College on this very course 25 years ago, as did several of our employees. This is our way of giving back and supporting the next generation of designers.”
The BrightStart programme will launch in March, engaging students with a variety of local businesses, including Real Employment Law Advice, IsleofWight.com, Red Squirrel Property Shop, Medtec Design Services, Johnson Electric, and Moore Chartered Accountants, among others.
At the start of each week, businesses will hold a face-to-face meeting to present students with a design brief, and by week’s end, students will showcase their completed projects. Throughout the programme, students will interact with clients via email and phone, mirroring the workflow of a professional studio environment.
Louise Downer, Course Leader at the Isle of Wight College, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership:
“Industrial work placements are invaluable for students, providing essential preparation for their future careers within the design industry and building their confidence. The Bright Start programme offers our Year 2 Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma Graphic Design Isle of Wight College students the opportunity to independently work within a leading design studio on the Isle of Wight for a week, which is immensely beneficial.
“Observing professionals in a dynamic creative environment and working on a dedicated client brief will offer them a realistic view of a creative practitioner’s daily life. The experience will extend their knowledge and skills and support their progression to university and future employment. We extend our sincere gratitude to Brightbulb for this tremendous offer.”
