Celebrating 10 Years of Developing Future Talent

Hardy Signs and Burton and South Derbyshire College (BSDC) have celebrated 10 years of partnership, marking a decade of developing future talent, creating career opportunities and supporting skills development through their Sign and Print Academy.

Established in 2016, the Sign and Print Academy brought education and industry together with a shared ambition: to equip the next generation with the practical skills, experience and confidence needed to build successful careers in the sign, print and creative industries.

Ten years later, the partnership continues to demonstrate how collaboration between local employers and education providers can strengthen the workforce, address industry skills needs and create meaningful career pathways.

Celebrating 10 Years of the Sign and Print Academy

To mark the milestone, representatives from Hardy Signs, Burton and South Derbyshire College and invited guests gathered at the College’s Mulberry Restaurant for an evening celebrating a decade of achievements, collaboration and opportunities.

The celebration also marked the launch of BSDC’s new Connected podcast series, with Hardy Signs Founder and Managing Director, Nik Hardy, featuring in its debut episode.

During the podcast, Nik reflected on the importance of employer partnerships, investing in young people and creating opportunities for the next generation to succeed.

From Sign Making Apprentice to Skilled Sign Fitter

One of the partnership’s success stories is Cole Clarke, who joined Hardy Signs as an apprentice when the Sign and Print Academy first launched in 2016.

Today, Cole is an experienced sign fitter, travelling across the UK to deliver professional signage installations for clients across a diverse range of industries.

Reflecting on his career, Cole said:

“I was one of the first students to complete the Level 2 Sign Making and Fitting Apprenticeship through the Sign and Print Academy. Since then, I’ve progressed to become a Fitter, travelling across the country to install a wide range of signage, window displays, vehicle graphics and building-mounted signs.

“I enjoy meeting new customers and helping to bring their vision to life. It’s a fantastic career with so many different pathways and opportunities for progression.”

Cole’s progression highlights the opportunities available through sign making apprenticeships and the value of practical, industry-led training in developing skilled professionals.

Building Stronger Links Between Education and Industry

Beyond apprenticeships, Hardy Signs and BSDC have continued to strengthen their relationship through educational initiatives, sponsorship of College awards and signage and branding projects across the campus.

Nik Hardy, Founder and Managing Director of Hardy Signs, said:

“Our partnership with the College has been incredibly valuable, helping us develop talented young people and build the skills our industry needs.

“Being able to support apprentices and help them grow into skilled, confident members of the workforce is a win-win, both for the individual and the business.”

John Beaty, Principal and Chief Executive of Burton and South Derbyshire College, added:

“We’re committed to developing long-lasting partnerships with local employers to ensure the education and training we provide responds to the needs of industry.

“Our relationship with Hardy Signs is a great example of how education and business can work together, creating opportunities for learners while strengthening links between the College and the local business community.”

Inspiring the Next Generation of Signage Professionals

As the partnership enters its second decade, Hardy Signs and Burton and South Derbyshire College remain committed to supporting apprenticeships, inspiring future generations and creating meaningful career opportunities across Burton upon Trent and the wider region.

With continued collaboration between education and industry, the Sign and Print Academy remains an example of how investing in local talent can help build a stronger, more skilled workforce for the future.