The University’s strategy ‘Creating Better Futures. Together’ is outward and forward-looking, recognising the importance of our external influence and the impact of our actions on the world around us, and reflecting the challenges that face us as a society.

One of our strategic aims is to be more equitable, diverse and inclusive – and so, students who entered the competition were asked to consider the following statements, and develop designs that reflect a sense of kindness, community and connections beyond the campus:

• We will create a culturally vibrant student community that benefits from the inclusion of students from across the globe and who are taught by diverse staff
• We will be accountable for our actions, we will care for ourselves, others and our environment
• We will foster team spirit and create a strong sense of community; we will work together with colleagues, students, alumni and partners

Each competition winner will receive £200. This year’s winners are as follows:

Phoebe Stainforth, Innovation and Design

On the inspiration behind her design, Phoebe said: “My inspiration for the card came from my favourite festive food, gingerbread. I just thought it would be fun to imagine a gingerbread Rutland building complete with a gingerbread person and sparkles.”

Joe Woodcock, Graphic Design

Joe commented: “This design was created to represent our University as a whole, taking into consideration each little element that makes us unique. I initially focused on the University fountain, which can be seen in the middle of the window frame. Stretching around the fountain is the University’s motto, this is a nod to our values and our courtyard architecture.

“Taking this bird's-eye view and rotating it allowed me to find the idea of the stained-glass windows, as the paths made room for windowpanes and built my frame. This idea stemmed from previous fine art students, who helped produce stained glass windows for the new Hazlerigg and Rutland halls of residence. Within this design, I looked at showing our diversity, heritage, and student skills through the panes of the stained-glass windows. Using warm, welcoming, and vibrant colours to truly represent us and the spirit of Christmas.”

Joseph Smith, Graphic Design

Joseph described the process behind his design: “When designing this card, I wanted to capture the warm, cosy atmosphere of a Christmas while combining this with imagery iconic to Loughborough, I also planned to create the main artwork for the poster in 3D software as I thought this would be unique.

“I modelled the Hazlerigg Building as I felt this was a nice representation of the campus and Loughborough University. Once I had these two main ideas, I thought a snow globe would be a good way to tie them together, combining the cosy nature of indoors at Christmas, while including one of Loughborough University's most iconic buildings.”