We were thrilled to open our doors once again for Advertising Unlocked, the IPA’s nationwide initiative that gives young people a behind-the-scenes look at what really happens inside an advertising agency. The programme connects agencies across the UK with local schools, helping students discover the wide range of careers available in the creative industries. Also, giving them a chance to experience agency life firsthand.
This year, we welcomed groups of students from local schools into Hunterlodge HQ for a full, hands-on day. As a Gold Standard IPA agency, we were also joined by representatives from the IPA, who came along to observe the session.
The day kicked off with a series of short, insightful talks from members of our team:
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Creative – exploring where ideas come from, how concepts evolve, and the importance of imagination in problem-solving.
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Social Media Planning – showing how brands build conversations, communities and impact in an ever-shifting digital space.
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Account Management – explaining how client relationships are nurtured and how projects are steered from brief to delivery.
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Strategy – breaking down how we uncover audience motivations, market insights, and the thinking that powers effective campaigns.
These sessions gave students a rounded view of how many different skill sets come together to create great work.
Turning insight into ideas
After the talks, teams from each school were given a live brief: develop a marketing and advertising campaign for the Neo Gama robot – this is a helpful companion created to support people in staying connected and independent. Their task was to explore the product’s audience, positioning, and unique benefits – and turn their research and ideas into a complete advertising campaign concept.
The day concluded with each team pitching their ideas to a panel made up of Hunterlodge senior leadership and IPA representatives. The students showed exceptional confidence, creativity and strategic thinking – impressing everyone with the quality of their ideas and the professionalism of their presentations.
Building future talent
Advertising Unlocked continues to be one of our favourite events of the year. It gives young people an insight into our industry while allowing us to inspire future creatives, strategists, account managers, and planners. We’re incredibly proud to support a nationwide initiative that opens doors for young talent and celebrates the power of creativity.
If you’re interested in getting into advertising or would like your local school to be a part of this initiative then get in touch nathan.summers@hunterlodge.co.uk