Having recently completed the Level 3 Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design, and Communication (Graphic Design) at Stamford College, Maddy Felix-Peters is excited to progress to Northumbria University, to pursue a degree in Graphic Design. 

Reflecting on her College experience, Maddy highlighted the widened skillset she gained. “Learning digital art has been really great!”, she shared. “I arrived with limited experience of digital platforms, but I’ve learnt so much”. She continued, “The software we worked with has been really useful for helping us break into the industry. Plus, I received careers guidance on the routes we can go down, and what to expect from future employment, helping me to prepare for later life”. 

Sophia Gripton, a Level 3 Graphic Design student, won the Oakham Ales Pump Clip Design competition for 2026, with a design inspired by cold weather and her love of drawing animals. Sophia shared, “I’ve really enjoyed the independence of studying at College compared to Secondary school – graphic design combines computers and art, both I really enjoy. It was nice working with companies and getting feedback from your work, its also great to add it to my portfolio.”

Sophia is progressing onto the University of York to study English Language and Linguistics.