Bold Ideas, Bright Futures: Graphic Design students take on Sky and PepsiCo live briefs
The BA (Hons) Graphic Design programme at Swansea College of Art, University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), continues to set the bar high with its dynamic industry collaborations, this year, once again partnering with major global players Sky and PepsiCo. Through the programme’s innovative Design Week events, students are given rare and invaluable opportunities to work on live briefs, pitch to professionals, and experience real-world design environments.
Design Week is a highlight of the academic calendar, designed to challenge, inspire, and equip students with practical skills and confidence. Students are placed into mixed-year teams to encourage peer learning, collaboration, and fresh perspectives. Working against the clock, each team develops a creative solution to a live brief set by one of the partner companies. The most promising team is then selected to refine and present their pitch at the company’s headquarters in London.
This year’s events were marked by the continued support of Sky and a deepening partnership with PepsiCo, both of whom brought a wealth of professional insight and enthusiasm to the student experience.
Sky has long been a champion of the UWTSD Graphic Design course, with alumni now embedded in departments such as Sky News, Sports, Health, and various creative roles. Gavin Kirby, Senior Lecturer for BA (Hons) Graphic Design said: “Our relationship with Sky spans many years and has involved numerous graduates. It’s inspiring for students to visit Sky Studios and see the possibilities for their future careers.”
PepsiCo’s involvement has brought a fresh perspective to the programme. Their London design team not only welcomed students to their offices but also engaged directly with their creative pitches.
“As a prominent global brand, PepsiCo offers a unique experience,” said Gavin. “We’re excited to build on this relationship in future years.”
For many students, these visits and presentations are a career-defining moment. First-year student Lowri Bowen was struck by the scale and warmth of the PepsiCo experience:
“I loved every single minute of it! The office was beautiful, the people were lovely and welcoming, and I’m so appreciative for this incredible opportunity.”
For Conrad Selby, the Sky Studios trip was a revelation: “After my experience there, it would absolutely be a place where I’d want to make a career in graphic design.”
Erasmus student Mariona Adarve Escofet from Barcelona described the PepsiCo visit as “a highly rewarding experience” that challenged her to push beyond her comfort zone.
“It was clear there was a very positive and collaborative work environment,” she said. “It genuinely makes a difference in our learning and university experience.”
Third-year student Jess Isaac echoed the value of these real-world connections:
“Visiting Sky Creative Studios gave me a chance to witness behind the scenes and connect with other designers. This opens the possibility for a future career - thanks to Swansea College of Art.”
Donna Williams, Programme Manager for BA Graphic Design, praised both the students’ enthusiasm and the programme’s industry-first focus:
“We regularly receive positive feedback from employers on the industry-readiness of our graduates. This feedback from current students reinforces why we do what we do—it’s about transforming lives through education.”
As the 2025 Sky Team, comprising Gavin Kirby, Jess Isaac, Martha Stephens, Morgan Roberts, and Conrad Selby prepares to take the next step, the BA (Hons) Graphic Design course continues to serve as a model of how higher education can connect meaningfully with industry.
Caroline Thraves, Academic Director Art and Media said: “These partnerships with Sky and PepsiCo don’t just create portfolio pieces - they open doors, inspire ambition, and provide a compelling launchpad for the next generation of creative professionals.”
Further Information
Rebecca Davies
Executive Press and Media Relations Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: rebecca.davies@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07384 467071