Back to school for Stockton design and print agency directors

Rachel Smith October 5, 2018

It was back to college for two directors of Stockton-on-Tees based marketing agency M Media & Design as new signage was installed at The Northern School of Art.

In September 2018, the former Cleveland College of Art and Design (CCAD), with sites in Hartlepool and Middlesbrough, officially became The Northern School of Art.

M Media & Design (MMD) Directors Gavin Hatton and Mark Skirving both met at what was CCAD in 1997 where they studied Graphic Design at BTEC level before progressing through to HND. After working for agencies across Teesside, they reunited in 2006 to form MMD and continue to provide a range of design and print services for clients across the UK.

“It was great to work with The Northern School of Art on this project. We were lucky to have a great education at CCAD and we have really enjoyed going back to The School to help roll out their new branding,” said Gavin.

“Mark and I remember our time at the college with great fondness and coming back has brought back happy memories of our four years there.”

After finishing his studies Gavin was employed by what was then CCAD as an Intern Graphic Designer.“This was a valuable way of transitioning into the world of work. I learnt so much in my 12 months about the design and print industry, all of which transferred well into employment once the internship finished.”

(L-R) Gavin Hatton, MMD Design Director, Mark Skirving, MMD Digital Director and Francis Fitzgerald, HE Cluster Manager, Graphic Design at The Northern School of Art’s Hartlepool campus

The project has included the roll-out of large format signage across all Hartlepool sites of The Northern School of Art. Mark Skirving, Director, MMD said:

“We have had great feedback from the marketing team at The Northern School of Art and look forward to creating a long-term relationship with an institute we owe a lot of thanks to. It is an exciting time for The School and as former alumni it is great to see them continuing to promote the creative industries in the region.”

Pat Chapman, Vice Principal (Employability and External Relations) said: “The launch of our new name – The Northern School of Art – is an exciting step forward for The School, and a celebration of all that we have achieved in the past. So it is particularly appropriate and pleasing to work with Mark and Gavin who are a part of that successful story.

“The School is also pleased to support local businesses who exemplify our record for enabling young creative entrepreneurs.”