University Campus Oldham learner wins brand agency placement

16th July 2026

A University Campus Oldham (UCO) student has won a placement with a London-based brand studio.

For the past two years, Red Dot Studio has set the branding brief that BA (Hons) Graphic Design students work on as part of their ‘Graphic Communication in Context’ module – giving students experience of working in their industry and a valuable insight into their future careers.

Lewis Greenhalgh, second year student at UCO, earned first place for his creative interpretation of the brief: ‘Revive a local gem. Breathe new life into your neighbourhood’s hidden treasure.’

Lewis chose to shine a spotlight on Hillbillies Snooker & Pool Club, on Huddersfield Road in Oldham. He said: “I pass Hillbillies every day on my way to campus, and it jumps out to me every time I see it.”

The theoretical rebrand included a new logo, typeface, signage and more, helping to capture the establishment’s character and charm.

Competing against other Creative students at the University of Lancashire and Norwich University of Arts, Lewis’s design came out on top and earned him a month’s work placement with Red Dot Studio.

Reflecting on the experience, Lewis said: “I’ve learned a lot from this: that the goal of branding is to completely capture the client’s vibe and that the concept behind what’s created, and the tone of voice, is 10x more important than super polished craft. I also found designing for Hillbillies enjoyable, which elevated the experience.

“Winning the placement will help me to gain invaluable insight into this industry, and it may also lead to more placement opportunities down the line. As someone aspiring to explore agency work after I graduate, I can’t wait.”

Lewis speaks highly of the support he received during this project. He says:

“The support I’ve received at UCO has been nothing short of amazing. There are major benefits to smaller classes, and having access to one-on-one support and feedback helped me to win the competition – without a doubt! There’s a big emphasis at UCO on finding good ideas and developing them as much as possible to achieve the best outcome, which kept me ambitious throughout the project.”

Brandon Thomas, Lecturer – Graphic Design at UCO, said:

“To win an award a student must be well attended, hardworking, receptive and willing. This year, Lewis has shown us he is all these things. It’s no easy task to come out on top against some of the country’s top design institutions, but Lewis has run with the brief and secured himself a paid placement in a London agency. From this, he will gain prestige and lifelong contacts – all before starting the final year of his degree.”