In the dynamic cultural landscape of the UK, the surge in demand for British Sign Language (BSL) is a testament to a society embracing inclusivity and diversity.
As awareness grows about the richness of Deaf culture, people are eager to bridge communication gaps and foster genuine connections. With businesses, schools, and public services recognising the importance of catering to all individuals, learning BSL has become an essential skill.
Moreover, the digital age has propelled BSL into online spaces, making it accessible and captivating for a broader audience. This remarkable shift reflects a nation’s commitment to understanding, unity, and celebrating linguistic vibrancy.
We’re thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of Weston College’s enhanced British Sign Language courses, commencing this September
We have two fantastic courses available: “British Sign Language for Frontline Staff” and “British Sign Language Level 1.” These courses are perfect for individuals new to #signlanguage or those seeking to refresh their foundational skills.
Many times, #deaf individuals find their communication experiences with service providers disappointing. Join the ranks of those who can effectively communicate and assist Deaf individuals.
To learn more and apply for the “British Sign Language for Frontline Staff” and “British Sign Language Level 1” courses, see here:
Prices start at £75
British Sign Language – 12 weeks
British Sign Language – 1 year qualification
Engaging with 16-18 year olds in 1-day-a-week work placements has emerged as a strategic move, reaping a multitude of advantages for both businesses and young individuals. These initiatives not only impart essential soft skills but also foster a brighter future for the young learners.
The benefits of such placements are manifold. Students at Weston College gain hands-on experience, cultivating teamwork, communication, and time management skills, which are pivotal in any professional setting. According to recent studies, 87% of employers prioritise soft skills over technical know-how when making hiring decisions. These work placements empower students with invaluable employability skills, enhancing their prospects in an increasingly competitive job market.
Recognizing the importance of this initiative, the UK Government’s Employer Support Fund offers financial incentives to companies that welcome T Level students. This support serves as a win-win, enabling businesses to harness fresh perspectives while providing young talent with a stepping stone into their desired career paths.
Incorporating 16-18 year olds into the workforce for just one day a week not only enriches their growth but also enriches the fabric of industries. By embracing this opportunity, employers not only shape the next generation of professionals but also bolster their own workforce with eager, motivated learners.
If any member felt they could offer an entry level work placement opportunity, please email the industry support team on [email protected] who can talk each company through the process. All businesses get to interview students and work with our team on finding the right learner to support into their employment journey.
Roles in demand are IT support, Graphic Design, Media, Game, E-sports, Digital and Animation
Access Creative College, Condense and LocalGlobe are proud to launch the second round of their funded scholarship focusing on bringing live events to virtual spaces, starting 30th October 2023 and running until mid-February 2024. The scholarship was created to respond to the growing diversity problem within the tech sector and in metaverse development, relating to a lack of women and people from minority ethnic groups.
“The gender equity gap in technology is higher than in any other sector, with women holding just 17% of technology roles in the UK.”
The Chartered Institute for IT (2023)
“Less than a tenth (8.5%) of senior leaders in UK tech are from ethnic minority groups, a sixth (16%) of IT professionals are female and a tenth (9%) of all IT specialists have a disability.”
Prospects (2022)
In early 2023, 4 young Bristol creatives embarked on the first round of this innovative and unique scholarship with very successful results including one participant, Olivia, being offered an Accounts Manager role at Condense upon completion of the course.
“Participating in the Condense Scholarship allowed me to broaden my horizons, learn some incredible new skills, and contributed to shaping my future. It has opened doors to endless possibilities for my career. The knowledge, practical experience, and networking opportunities gained through the program have significantly enhanced my opportunities in the tech industry.” – Olivia, Condense Scholar, 2023.
Applications opened in July for anyone over the age of 19, with 8 spaces available on this intensive programme that takes in 3D modelling, Digital Graphics, Realtime VFX and Virtual Worlds, all funded by a bursary of £1800. Applications from women and people from ethnic minority backgrounds are particularly encouraged.
Click here to find out more and apply.
The students at Weston College may have left the building for the summer, but we are busy working hard to support our new cohort due to start in our next academic term. We are looking to support our new year 1 Digital learners for September onwards.
Can you help support a work placement in an entry IT Technician style role for your organisation? We are looking for entry level roles to help build confidence and soft skills for our young students.
This builds excellent communication experience and workplace expectations…..perhaps you have a brilliant IT department that could use an extra pair of hands?
Contact the team today [email protected]
JonesMillbank, Bristol-based video production company, is now a Certified B Corp.
They join a growing community who are leading a global movement that makes business a force for good.
And Bristol is gaining pace, with over 70 companies from Ecologi to Triodos Bank, Too Good To Go, Psychopomp and Sawday’s inspiring change.
JonesMillbank have achieved a score of 94.7, but like all B Corps, certification is just the start of the journey.
“We’re incredibly proud to be a Certified B Corp, which recognises our ethos and all the work we’ve done to date. But we’re excited about how the certification will inspire us and our team to do more” said Russell Jones, Co-Founder at JonesMillbank.
“And there’s a huge opportunity for improvement. With the opening of our new TV and film studio, Nine Tree Studios, we’ll have more space and resources to support Bristol’s community, from internships to pro-bono hire, creative industry support, and event hosting.”
Nine Tree Studios will host this month’s Purpose in Practice event, run by Assembly, featuring Adam Millbank, Co-Founder of JonesMillbank, as guest speaker.
Of the B Corp Certification, Adam said “We’ve always aspired to leave a positive lasting impression on everyone we encounter. It’s been part of our culture throughout our journey. Being part of the B Corp community further amplifies this goal and will ensure the company will always balance its financial goals with true positive purpose”.
JonesMillbank commenced their B Corp journey in November 2019, and part of their certification recognises their support for impactful businesses, including over 50 education institutions and numerous charities and public sector organisations.
For more information and to start your own B Corp journey, visit www.bcorporation.net.
***
JonesMillbank are a full-service video production company.
They work in-house with a talented team of multi-disciplined creatives, telling authentic stories for a range of clients such as University of Bristol, IDLES, NHS England, The Royal Mint and Battersea.
jonesmillbank.com
01173706372
[email protected]
As we announced earlier this year, Bristol Creative Industries has teamed up with Bristol-based social enterprise Babbasa and 14 creative businesses to launch a city-wide internship programme.
The programme is aimed at Bristol-based young people aged 18-24 from an ethnic minority and/or from a low-income background who want to gain insight and experience in the creative industry.
The scheme sees many of the city’s most well-known creative companies offering six-month full time paid placements to applicants in roles covering advertising, marketing, design, animation and digital.
We held interviews last month (see image above) and we were so impressed by the talent and skills on display from the young people who applied. It was a very hard decision but we are delighted to announced the successful interns.
Watch the videos below for some insights from three of the agencies about why they are involved in the programme and the need to improve diversity in the creative industries.
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See Aardman Animations’ Bristol Creative Industries profile here.
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See Halo’s Bristol Creative Industries profile here.
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See Newicon’s Bristol Creative Industries profile here.
We are delighted to announce the 14 young people from across the city who have been selected as the initial cohort for the Bristol Creative Industries Internship Programme, in partnership with Babbasa and 14 creative businesses from the BCI membership community.
Launched earlier this year, the programme is aimed at young people aged 18-24 from underrepresented backgrounds wanting to gain more insight and real experience in the creative industries.
Two of the biggest challenges facing the sector are a long-term skills shortage and a lack of workforce diversity. This programme has been designed specifically to tackle those issues.
The BCI-commissoned A Creative Force to Be Reckoned With report found that increasing diversity and inclusion is a significant priority for six in 10 (59%) creative firms in Bristol, but almost half (48%) said they want help finding diverse talent from underrepresented groups.
As part of the Bristol Creative Industries Internship Programme, many of the city’s most well-known creative companies have offered six-month full time paid placements to applicants in roles covering advertising, marketing, design, animation and digital.
Sara Foley, senior designer at Mr B & Friends, commented on her agency’s reason for participating in the programme:
“At Mr B & Friends, we’re on our own journey for better representation and inclusivity within our agency and the industry as a whole. Our DE&I team (in its fifth year) understand that there are barriers to getting into the creative industry for those who are in underrepresented groups.
“Whether that be lack of education, lack of opportunities or lack of awareness that this is a career path for them, we were looking to be able to provide an opportunity for young people and this internship programme has helped give us that.”
Over the past few months, applicants met participating agencies for an informal interview and meet & greet session at The Watershed, where they had the chance to chat directly with the participating agencies to learn more about the businesses and remit of the available roles.
Rob Pellow, executive technical Director at Armadillo, commented on the recruitment process:
“Meeting the potential interns and working with them in the workshop was an unbelievably eye-opening experience. Nothing had prepared me for the level of passion, curiosity, and dedication to finding work that energises them.”
The successful applicants will now work for six months, during which time they will undergo two placements at two different agencies, both lasting three months each.
The programme will provide a mix of professional skills training, creative skills training, inspirational talks, networking events, mentoring and opportunities for future employment.
Zoe Lynes, head of services at Babbasa, said:
“This is an amazing opportunity we are creating for young people across Bristol and our collaboration on this scheme has been a real passion piece for all of us here at Babbasa.
“This project has allowed us to foster a strong collaborative relationship with Bristol Creative Industries, aligning our mutual goals of raising up those young people who have been disadvantaged, to work together to build opportunity, excitement, and progression for those young people who need it most in Bristol.”
Chris Thurling, chair of Bristol Creative Industries, commented:
“We are delighted to welcome our first cohort for the internship programme. Just the recruitment process itself has been incredibly rewarding for all involved and has only reinforced the reasons as to why we set up this initiative.
“We are incredibly excited to see the new recruits take the next step in their journey and kick off their roles with some of the very best creative businesses not just in the city of Bristol, but in the UK.”
The businesses and Bristol Creative Industries members participating in the programme are:
The full list of interns and the companies they are working their first placement at:
Read more information about the Bristol Creative Industries Internship Programme and full biographies for the interns here.
Top image credit: Eljay Briss [website] [Instagram]
Paul Bailey, brand strategy director, Halo:
“We are three days in to our internship and I’ve been amazed at the impact our intern has had. A super smart, super tuned-in, super vibrant personality, she has been a breath of fresh air to the agency. Her youthful energy and her lack of limits has inspired our agency already. Imagine what she will do in week two!”
Matt Woodman, UX/UI designer, Atomic Smash:
“Our first placement, Mohd, has been an absolute pleasure to work with. He’s keen, curious and engaged to a level that I could only have imagined. We can see exactly why he’s been matched with our agency and are excited for the coming weeks working together.”
Phill Lane, head of brand and insight, ThirtyThree:
“As an agency that works with employers on recruitment marketing, culture, and DE&I comms, it’s vital that we have an employee base ourselves that represents the whole of society, and benefits from the diversity of thought and experience that that brings.
“For us, the Bristol Creative Industries Internship Programme is a tool to help address the fact that there are underrepresented groups who don’t have access to, of understanding of, the creative industries – and that, without a dedicated programme of outreach, education and access to opportunity, we’ll never change that.”
Lucy Rees, people and culture manager, Newicon:
“The creative industry has needed a disruption for quite some time, this internship is just that, with diversity comes innovation and I cannot wait to see the impact the interns will have in all of our business over the coming months.”
Paula Newport, director of people and culture, Aardman Animations:
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Bristol-based web design and branding agency, Squarebird, have modernised the online presence of GLOBIS University, a leading business school in Japan, to better appeal to international audiences.
With practicality, entrepreneurship, and a strong global network at the core of the GLOBIS offering, it was crucial that the new website reflected these strengths alongside the wider benefits of joining University. Following a period of extensive market and user research by the GLOBIS team, Squarebird was briefed, and the discovery phase of the project began, starting with functionality, sitemap, and user journeys before moving onto the creatives.
The new English-speaking GLOBIS website needed to align with the global brand and Japanese-speaking site, yet still have its own identity. To encapsulate this, the team designed a number of brand exploration style tiles to ensure all stakeholders were aligned on the overall look and feel before moving on to the more functional desktop and mobile page designs.
With designs approved, the website development began. The Squarebird team worked closely with GLOBIS stakeholders to ensure the functionality matched their requirements, feeding courses, faculty members, events and more throughout the site to provide users with a constant stream of information and networking opportunities. Bespoke landing pages were an incredibly imperative element in this project given GLOBIS’ extensive marketing campaigns, and a flexible template enables GLOBIS to be able to create bespoke pages for future campaigns, with tracking established to record performance.
‘’The design brief was to include current brand styles and functionality but with a modern edge. The Squarebird design team had to adhere to GLOBIS’ brand colours and graphic shapes but incorporate new typography, photography, iconography and new forward-thinking UI. Working closely with GLOBIS throughout the design stage, the project team were able to produce a new website design that delivered the creative brief and more.’’ – Alec Herrington, Design Lead at Squarebird
“We’re extremely proud of our work with GLOBIS University. For me, the success of a website development project that involves international collaboration is not just measured by the end product, but by two teams working seamlessly in unison towards a shared objective from different corners of the world.
A large part of the project was to ensure we empowered the GLOBIS team with the ability to effortlessly update and manage their website, ensuring the project’s long-term success and value. I feel we achieved this, and more, building a website filled with client-centric functionality.
The GLOBIS team were a pleasure to work with, and we look forward to future projects with the organisation.” – Nick Bird, Managing Partner at Squarebird
The new website provides a present, informative, and visually engaging website that embodies the GLOBIS difference and presents their offering to talented international prospective students, giving them an insight into what life could look like at the GLOBIS business school.
“Before partnering with Squarebird, our University’s website faced challenges like limited organic traffic, outdated design, and unintuitive user experience. After evaluating over 20 agencies worldwide, we chose Squarebird for their expertise in design, development, SEO strategy, and excellent communication style. The outcome of our 9-month collaboration was a revamped website with enhanced UX/UI, compelling brand messaging, fresh visuals, and improved information architecture. The new site has attracted positive feedback from stakeholders and successfully showcases our brand values and personality. We’re proud of the results and highly recommend Squarebird’s high-quality services to others seeking an impactful web transformation.” – Cristiana Celli, Digital Marketing Specialist at GLOBIS University
View the full case study here.
World-renowned, Bristol-based product development consultancy Kinneir Dufort are proud to be running the Ethnic Diversity Excellence Programme (EDE) for a third year running.
To tackle the visible lack of diversity within the UK design industry, Kinneir Dufort’s EDE Programme offers an opportunity for three students from minority ethnic and heritage communities entering their third year of university to take part in a funded 8-week internship.
Supported by an industry-wide EDE Council, with distinguished council members of minoritised ethnic backgrounds from AstraZeneca, LettUs Grow, No7 Company, FluoretiQ, Unilever and Reckitt, the programme offers three students in their final year an immersive opportunity to learn and develop within an industry environment. The successful applicants will also take part in school outreach programmes to help increase awareness of the design sector to help boost diversity in future generations of designers.
Along with 8 weeks of hands-on experience, mentoring and advice, the individuals will receive a £2,000 sponsorship along with £1,000 travel and accommodation expenses. This opportunity is open to all universities in the UK.
The driving force behind the programme, Sunny Panesar, Head of Portfolio Management at KD, is driven by the lack of ethnic diversity in the product development industry, and the need for change. Sunny says: “Having often been the only person of colour in the room throughout my career, the lack of ethnic diversity is striking, if we’re truly going to design a better world, we need to reflect the people we’re designing for.
“I understand how important it is for ethnic minority students to have this opportunity, firstly to make them aware of this incredible industry as a career option and then to help them overcome complex systemic barriers holding them back when trying to break into industry. Our goal is to level-up and give minoritised ethnic students an equal playing field. We want to offer interns a high-quality experience which is immersive and potentially life-changing; they will learn and develop within an exciting and unique environment with external mentoring from industry experts.
“The last two years have been a resounding success for KD, we have taken on full-time employees from the scheme and have a seen a vast improvement in all areas of diversity throughout the team. This year, we’re excited to launch the programme again and encourage students from around the UK to watch our webinar and submit their applications.”
Kinneir Dufort believe that they, and the wider innovation, design and product development industry need to do more to mirror the diversity of who we are designing for within the UK, and beyond.
Learn more about the application criteria, how to apply and the deadline here. If you would still like to learn more and see if this programme is for you, you can watch our recorded live Q&A with our EDE Council.
We’re thrilled to announce the return of the Torchbox Academy! An opportunity for you to kick-start a career in tech or digital marketing with a paid, full-time position here at Torchbox.
A place on our academy programme provides hands-on experience in our tech or digital marketing team. It’s a fully paid role that provides full training throughout, leading to a permanent position upon completion of the programme.
The digital marketing programme runs for one year and the tech programme runs for two years, both starting from September/October 2023.
New to 2023, we’ve introduced an SEO-specialist position!
Anyone in the UK who is passionate about a career in tech or digital marketing can apply. This could be your first job, a career change or a return to work.
Whilst it’s possible to work from home, we’d love you to be able to pop into the office to meet with your mentor from time to time. We’re a friendly bunch with a vibrant atmosphere in both our Oxfordshire and Bristol offices. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy all of the perks of visiting the office:
Our city-centre Bristol office is great for a spot of lunchtime mooching around the shops. We’ll be able to show you all the best coffee spots too! Our Oxfordshire office is set amongst a beautiful landscape of open space and rolling hills. We often head out for lunchtime walks to spot the herd of deer that roam the fields. We’d love you to join us!
You can submit your application here. The first stage is to complete a series of short tasks. We won’t ask for your C.V at this stage, so don’t worry about updating that quite yet!
Applications are open from Thursday 6th April and close on Monday 24th April. So, be sure to submit your application in time!
If your application is approved, the next step is to join our Academy Day in Bristol, which includes exciting talks, workshops and a 1-2-1 interview.
We’ll plant a tree in the Torchbox Grove for everybody who joins one of our Academy Days.
We’ve always been a values-driven company, and that’s reflected in our amazing clients-roster. Now, we’ve helped to pioneer a socially-responsible business model too, causing a bit of a stir back in 2019 when we became the first digital agency to become 100% employee-owned!
We were proud to be recognised as a World Class place to work in the Best Companies Survey 2022 along with a number of other industry accolades that showcase our dedication to our people and the planet.
You’ll also get our full benefits package that includes:
Find more information about the Torchbox Academy and submit your application by clicking here.
If you have any further questions, get in touch with our friendly recruitment team at [email protected]
We hope to see your application soon! 🚀
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