ROYSTON-based Black Pig creative agency has launched a region-wide business-to-education creative award for young people. The launch, which is aimed at students in the East of England, took place at Greneway School in Royston and is the first of its kind

ROYSTON-based Black Pig creative agency has launched a region-wide business-to-education creative award for young people.

The launch, which is aimed at students in the East of England, took place at Greneway School in Royston and is the first of its kind.

The Black Pig Creative Award allows schools and business to work together to broaden students' horizons and encourage excellence in creativity.

The award is open to students from any school or college in the region who study Key Stage 1 through to A-levels.

Black Pig managing director Sarah-Jane Higgins said: "We have always played an active role in our local schools and colleges, but found it frustrating that we can't share our support on a wider scale.

"Our designers are continually amazed by the fresh ideas and enthusiasm displayed by the students."

In response to a project brief, participating students will need to produce a creative piece on the topic Branding the Region.

Sarah-Jane said: "We're eager to see what the students come up with. We hope to see some truly inspired entries."

She added: "I strongly believe in bridging the gap between education and business and by launching this award we hope to increase young people's awareness of careers in the creative industry."

A spokesman for Greneway School said: "The school hopes to encourage students to be more creative through entering the competition. Creativity and design is encouraged within the school.

"This is a great project that helps promote the East of England. The competition encompasses lots of educational aspects such as geography, ICT, citizenship and art and design."

Entries will be judged by a panel of industry experts including representatives from the East of England Development Agency, the Centre for Entrepreneurial Learning at Cambridge University and East of England International.

Carole McAlpine, chief executive of Work with Schools, said: "It's an excellent way for business to support and develop creativity in schools. The project is about companies working with students to gain a better understanding of work beyond the school environment."

- Schools need to register their interest with Black Pig before September 22. The deadline for submissions is December 15 and judging will take place in the new year.

An entry pack can be obtained by e-mailing queries@creative award.co.uk