Creative partnership gives University Centre Peterborough student real-world industry experience

A growing relationship between University Centre Peterborough, part of Inspire Education Group, and local creative studio Cusumano has given a Graphic Design student the opportunity to gain valuable industry experience while bringing fresh creative thinking into a local business.

Oliver, who is studying Level 6 Graphic Design, completed a successful two-week placement with Cusumano, working predominantly remotely alongside Creative Director Castenzio ‘Caz’ Cusumano.

The opportunity came about after Caz reached out looking for practical support within his business and an opportunity to share his experience with the next generation of designers.

Cusumano specialises in visual identity and brand design, helping businesses create distinctive and meaningful brands through logos, typography, colour, digital design and wider visual communications. With more than 20 years’ experience spanning print, digital, video, UX and UI design, Caz saw the placement as an opportunity to support an emerging designer while bringing new ideas and perspectives into his own business.

Caz said: “Running a business, you can’t always do everything yourself. I was looking for some practical support, but I also wanted an opportunity to give something back through the knowledge and experience I’ve built over my career.

“I was given a selection of candidates, and Oliver joined me for two weeks. It was a really positive experience. He brought fresh ideas, and it was great to see his visual take on different projects.”

During the placement, Oliver worked on a range of creative activities, including logo design, allowing him to experience how projects are approached and developed in a professional environment.

Oliver said: “I did quite a lot of logo design, which was really interesting. I learned loads and was introduced to things I hadn’t come across before.

“Learning directly from an employer is different because it’s much more hands-on. I’ve picked up skills that will definitely be useful for future employment and other opportunities.”

He added: “I was also supported with my CV and cover letter so I was ready to apply. It’s helped me build the professional skills I’ll need to take that next step into employment.”

For Caz, the experience highlighted how placements can provide genuine benefits for employers as well as students.

He said: “The benefit of bringing someone in from university or education is that they have enthusiasm, they want to learn, and they’re driven. Every business needs that rejuvenation.

“They will learn a lot from you, but you will learn a lot from them too. Oliver brought a different perspective and new ideas into the business, which was really valuable.”

The successful placement has strengthened the relationship between Cusumano and Inspire Education Group, while demonstrating what can be achieved by connecting emerging talent with businesses in the city.

Caz also has an established relationship with Allia Future Business Centre in Peterborough, where he works from time to time and connects with its wider community of businesses and entrepreneurs.

Caz encouraged other employers to consider how they could support emerging talent within their own industries.

He added: “Reach out. At some point in everyone’s career, there’s an opportunity to give something back. Working with students allows you to share your experience while also bringing fresh thinking into your business.”

By building relationships with employers across Peterborough and the wider region, University Centre Peterborough is creating opportunities for students to apply their learning in professional environments, develop valuable workplace skills and make connections that can support their future careers.

Want to work with our students? Discover UCP Futures and explore how your organisation can connect with emerging talent.