Menu
Back to News ListPreviousNext

Year 12 Students Visit Hunter Lodge Advertising Agency

 

A group of 12 Year 12 students embarked on an exciting trip to Hunter Lodge Advertising Agency in Rickmansworth. The day was designed to give students a behind-the-scenes look at the world of advertising and brand management, providing them with a hands-on opportunity to develop their own creative solutions for a major brand challenge. Advertising Unlocked is an initiative run by the IPA (Institute of Practising Advertisers) which encourages advertising agencies like Hunterlodge to open their doors to students to learn more about the industry. 

Upon arrival, students were welcomed by the agency’s team and had the chance to hear from different departments about their role in crafting and communicating brand identities. Account management, Content creation, Finance and Creative teams each shared valuable insights into how they collaborate to build campaigns. The discussions allowed students to see the many facets of the advertising industry, from the strategic planning that underpins brand campaigns to the creative execution.

The highlight of the day came after these sessions, when students were given the challenge of competing against two other schools – Rickmansworth School and Royal Masonic School – in a brand revitalisation competition. The task? To create a comprehensive marketing strategy for the struggling TGI Fridays brand, using a budget of £10 million to breathe new life into the iconic restaurant chain.

In a race against the clock, students were given just two hours to develop a seven-minute presentation, outlining their ideas for how to revamp TGI Fridays’ image and attract a fresh audience. The teams dove into brainstorming sessions, strategizing how to use the budget effectively and create a compelling narrative for the brand.

St. Clement Danes School’s team stood out with their bold and innovative approach: rebranding TGI Fridays as the ultimate couples’ destination. Their idea focused on tapping into the growing trend of dating apps and offering a unique, fun experience for couples. They proposed themed nights, couple-focused cocktails, and targeted advertising during dating-related TV shows, creating an experience that would make TGI Fridays the go-to spot for modern couples. 

Although St. Clement Danes delivered a compelling and imaginative presentation, the competition was fierce, and they were narrowly pipped at the post by Rickmansworth School, who took home the trophy. Despite not winning, St. Clement Danes students gained valuable experience and feedback from industry professionals, as well as an opportunity to collaborate with peers from other schools.

 A huge thanks to the team at Hunter Lodge for the superb organisation and the time given up to provide such a fantastic and memorable educational experience.

Back to News ListPreviousNext

Categories

Category / All Articles

Archives

Also Featured

19th December

Charities Week 2025

The halls of St Clement Danes School have been buzzing with holiday cheer this week as the annual Charities Week is officially in full swing. As the Autumn Term draws to a close, pupils and staff have united to raise vital funds for three incredible causes: Endometriosis UK, Spread a Smile, and Herts Young Homeless. The school is alive with the spirit of giving, driven by a jam packed ‘Advent’ schedule designed to get everyone involved in the fundraising efforts. This year’s itinerary has been filled with exciting activities, ranging from pupil led lessons and a "Mystery Bucket" challenge to the competitive excitement of the "Elf Auction" and various competitions. Pupils have also enjoyed the classic "Sponge the Teacher" event and a visit to Santa’s Grotto, ensuring the festive atmosphere is matched only by the community’s generosity. Beyond the classroom activities, pupils have been sharing the festive spirit with the wider community. On 18th December, the SCD Senior Choir paid a special visit to Chorleywood Manor Care Home. The residents were treated to a beautiful selection of Christmas carols, featuring performances by members of the Chamber Choir, Evensong Choir, and the Barbershop Choir. Year 12 pupils Immy and Chrissie noted that "it was a very joyful occasion and it was lovely to see the residents joining in and looking so happy." The success of such a busy week relies heavily on pupil leadership, and the school extends a massive vote of thanks to Year 13 for their incredible hard work and dedication. Their enthusiasm have been the driving force behind this week's fundraising efforts. The week is set to conclude on Friday with the Grand Finale: the highly anticipated Sixth Form Revue, promising a spectacular end to a week of community, charity and celebration.