Internship opens doors to employment
Gwill King graduates today with a BA Graphic Design from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD).
Gwill, from Devon, has not only been an outstanding student, according to programme director Donna Williams, he’s also one of several UWTSD students to benefit from the University’s INSPIRE Internship fund, which has supported him to undertake a paid placement with a local company.
During his time with the Cor Watersports Ltd based in Gower, Gwill was responsible for providing graphic design, creating social media content, developing the company’s web interface and improving the user-experience of its digital platforms. He supported the company through the internship between February and May and has now been taken on as a full-time employee for the next few months with the hope of extending his tenure.
Gwill says of his experience: “The INSPIRE Internship was an incredible way to have access to an industry workplace environment and my course helped me aim towards that standard of work. My lecturers were very supportive with me when on my internship and were on hand to answer any questions or tasks set to me which still required a bit of support. I am now back at my internship - COR Watersports - but now as their Graphic Designer which could not have been possible without the INSPIRE Internship opportunity and funding”.
According to Matt Baker Smith, of Cor Watersports, Gwill’s creative talent and knowledge of appropriate software packages created capacity within the team and a brought fresh perspectives and inspiration to the company. He says that the Internship was “a great way to dip our toes into helping to offer employment, and also train and shape an individual with their own key strengths”.
Matt explained: “At Cor Watersports, we believe businesses have a responsibility to help develop the next generation of talent. Gwill arrived with a strong creative foundation, but it was his enthusiasm, willingness to learn and commitment to improving every day that really stood out. Watching him grow in confidence and become an important member of our team has been incredibly rewarding.
“The internship wasn’t simply about filling a role—it was about investing in a person. In return, Gwill has brought fresh ideas, new skills and a different perspective that has genuinely helped move our business forward. I would encourage other local businesses to consider taking on interns. It gives young people a real opportunity to begin their careers while allowing employers to discover talented individuals who can make a lasting contribution.”
Donna Williams Programme Manager for BA (Hons) Graphic Design said:
“Gwill King joined the company through a university internship, an opportunity that proved invaluable in developing his professional skills and experience. We are delighted that the internship has now led to full-time employment, allowing Gwill to begin his career in Swansea.
“Gwill has been an outstanding student who embraced every opportunity offered during his time at UWTSD. While we will be sad to see him leave, we are thrilled that he has secured employment through the University’s internship programme and wish him every success in the future.”
Amanda Hayden, Projects Manager Innovation and Engagement at UWTSD, says: “One of our key priorities is supporting student employability and providing meaningful industry experience that helps students develop the skills, confidence and knowledge needed for future careers. Employers’ support plays a vital role in making this possible and we’re very grateful to Cor Watersports Ltd for working with us. I’m delighted that Gwill has proved such an asset to the company and I wish him all the best for the future.”
Further Information
Eleri Beynon
Head
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: e.beynon@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 01267 676790