The award-winning packaging manufacturer partnered with East Surrey College to offer its Level 3 Creative Practice: Art, Design & Communication students an opportunity to showcase their talents and gain real-world experience in packaging design.

The students were tasked with designing packaging solutions for two industry briefs, which had a focus on eco-friendliness and sustainability. The submissions were judged on their constructional and graphical elements, and four winners received their awards from Curtis sales director Steve Mallett.

Mallett said the judges were “amazed” by the submissions and told the students they “should all be very proud”.

"We were really impressed by the quality of the work," he added.

The Gold award went to Nico Larkin, whose winning design was centred around Christmas gift ideas.

The judges praised its clever insert and intricate print finishes and thought-out construction. They were further impressed by its eco-friendliness and careful consideration for safe transit from business to consumer.

Evie Edwards won Silver with a production friendly FBB (folding box board) gifting design that showcased creative artwork and a “unique surprise element”.

While the Bronze award was shared between Charlotte Ashton and Johnlee King, whose designs incorporated sustainable materials and “incredible hand drawn graphics”.

Mallett said Curtis was proud to foster young talent in the industry and congratulated all the winners on their impressive achievements.