Students from two Cambridgeshire secondary schools traded their classrooms for hands-on workshops, confidence-building sessions and future career talks at branding and signage specialist Moss UK's head office in St Neots.
Pupils from St Peter’s and Samuel Pepys schools spent a full day at Moss, which had been transformed into a hub of innovation and inspiration.
The event began with Matt Tibbitts, Production Manager at Moss, who provided an overview of the company’s history, highlighting its key sectors and core values. This was followed by Mark Rose, Operations Director, who outlined the importance of sustainability, and the actions Moss is undertaking to drive positive change. After this introduction, the students were captivated to learn that 80% of Moss’ workforce live locally, encouraging them to pursue careers close to home.
Alex Richards, from local charity Inspire2Ignite, led a session aimed at empowering students through confidence-building exercises. The young students then gained hands-on experience whilst learning about the intricate process of producing kiss-cut vinyl graphics, getting practical insight into the work continually carried out at Moss.
The day highlighted the need of bringing young people into the print and branding sector. Jon Bray from apprenticeship provider Learn2Print shared insights into the programmes available, stressing the exciting opportunities within an industry where innovation and craftsmanship combine to create branding solutions seen around the world.
Callum Thorne and Ben Sullivan, both of whom started their careers as apprentices at Moss and now hold full-time positions, shared their personal success stories and provided knowledge of the exciting opportunities available at Moss.
The open day made a lasting impact on the students as one commented: “It’s been great to see what’s on my doorstep.”
“I want to come here when I’m older,” added another.
"The enthusiasm from the students was evident from the start," said Lee Garnett, Continuous Improvement Manager. “It was fantastic to see them fully engaged in the creative process and leaving with the confidence to ask questions and know their way around our production hub.”
