Swindon-based creative agency GEL Studios is proud to launch its Next Gen programme, an inspiring new initiative that offers young people elevated, hands-on work experience within a thriving, award-winning agency.
What began as occasional, ad-hoc placements has evolved into a dedicated programme that delivers meaningful, real-world creative opportunities.
Whether working on mock briefs or contributing to live campaigns, students gain a genuine taste of creative agency life, building skills and confidence along the way. Each placement is tailored to help students explore the worlds of marketing and design – either across both disciplines or with a focused deep dive, depending on their individual interests.
Now working in exclusive partnership with local schools and colleges, including Bradon Forest School, Nova Hreod Academy, Cirencester College, and New College Swindon, GEL Studios ensures every placement goes far beyond the usual, making tea, data input or watching from the sidelines. Students are immersed in creative thinking, collaboration, and campaign delivery from day one.
Last week, the team welcomed Ryan and Lauren, two Year 10 students from Nova Hreod Academy, who tackled a fictional brief to develop a promotional campaign for a brand-new Ben & Jerry’s ice cream flavour linked to the upcoming Superman film, exclusively for Vue cinemas. Their concept, Big Blue Scoop Scout, cleverly nods to Superman’s “Big Blue Boy Scout” nickname and was brought to life through audience research, persona development, content creation, and a full social campaign.
“Having Ryan and Lauren in the studio was incredibly rewarding,” said Beth Wakefield, Creative Strategist and Work Experience Lead at GEL Studios. “Their energy, creativity, and eagerness to complete our creative brief reminded us just how important it is to provide space for young people to succeed and find their passions.”
The Next Gen programme is part of GEL Studios’ wider mission to create work that makes a difference. By opening its doors to the next generation, the agency is helping remove barriers to the industry and empowering students to bring their ideas to life in a supportive, professional environment.
“Next Gen isn’t just about giving students a placement, it’s about giving them a platform,” added Graeme Leighfield, Founder of GEL Studios. “We’re proud to be playing a role in shaping the creative journeys of tomorrow’s talent.”
With more placements scheduled throughout the year and partnerships continuing to grow, GEL Studios remains committed to supporting and uplifting Swindon’s next generation of creatives.
