2024 Comms Council Foundations of Advertising and Media Course Concludes

The 37 participants from agencies in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch worked in groups throughout the course, delivering assignments on a range of industry topics. Their work was presented in various formats, including videos, magazines, and even an art exhibition. On the final night, managers, colleagues, friends, and family had the chance to view a condensed 10-minute presentation summarising their efforts.

Dan Fastnedge, advertising and brand creativity lecturer at Auckland University and course leader, summed up the experience: “Over the last 12 weeks, we’ve had a stellar group of bright minds come together from 12 different agencies, not just to learn, but to share, question, and dive into all things advertising with some of the best in the business. It’s been a whirlwind of ideas, insights, and plenty of lively discussions that pushed the boundaries of what advertising can be.”

The Foundations Course, now in its eleventh year, is regarded as one of the most valuable and effective professional development opportunities for those with fewer than two years of experience in the industry. Each week, participants visit different agencies and hear from industry experts on topics like Creative Ideation, Cultural Competency, and The Art and Science of the Brief. The course not only provides a thorough grounding in the core disciplines of advertising and media, but also creates opportunities to build relationships and friendships that can last a career.

Dates for next year’s course will be released shortly.