CRE8 - Creative Industry Academy

Gwydir Street Enterprise Centre, 23-25 Gwydir Street, Cambridge, CB1 2LG

About us

CRE8 Cambridge, based at the Gwydir Enterprise Centre, provides a modern and creative environment for students who want a more practical, hands-on and industry-focused alternative to a traditional sixth form or college.

Our programmes are built around the creative industries, giving students the opportunity to explore areas including:

Graphic, product, fashion, web and digital design
Film, TV and video production
Photography
Animation, motion graphics and VFX
Social media and content creation
Branding, advertising and marketing
Journalism and publishing
Audio, podcasting and music production
Game and interactive media\

Our main post-16 programme is a Level 3 qualification equivalent to three A-Levels, with alternative routes available through our Level 2 programme and post-18 Level 4 qualifications.

We want students to leave CRE8 with more than just a qualification. Our aim is for every student to develop confidence, practical creative skills, industry awareness and a strong portfolio that supports their next step.

Student support

We understand that every student is different, and our approach reflects that.

Our smaller learning environment allows us to get to know our students properly and provide more individual support throughout their programme.

Students receive support with:

Academic progress
Creative and technical skills
Organisation and time management
Confidence and independence
Portfolio development
Career exploration
University and apprenticeship applications
CVs, interviews and professional development
Progression planning

Regular tutorials and progress reviews help students understand where they are, what they need to improve and what their next steps could be.

We aim to create an environment where students feel comfortable experimenting, making mistakes, asking questions and developing at their own pace.

What makes us different?

At CRE8, we do things differently.

Our students learn by creating, experimenting and producing, rather than spending the majority of their time learning through traditional classroom-based methods.

We place a strong emphasis on:

Practical and project-based learning
Smaller-group support
Exploring different creative industries
Developing individual interests and specialisms
Using modern creative software, equipment and technology
Real-world and industry-style projects
Building strong creative portfolios
Developing confidence and professional skills
Preparing students for university, apprenticeships and employment

We encourage students to explore a wide range of creative areas before deciding where they want to specialise.

There is no expectation that students arrive knowing exactly what creative career they want to pursue. Part of our role is helping them discover what they enjoy, what they are good at and where those skills could take them.

CREATIVE. BOLD. DIFFERENT.

Transport

Our Cambridge campus is based at the Gwydir Enterprise Centre, Cambridge.

The central Cambridge location makes the campus accessible for students travelling from across Cambridge and surrounding areas by public transport, bicycle or other local transport options.

Full travel information and guidance will be provided to students and families as part of the application and enrolment process.

Additional information

Our programmes are designed for students who are interested in the creative industries, regardless of whether they have previously studied a creative subject.

Students will have access to modern creative software, digital tools and equipment and will be encouraged to work across different areas of creative practice.

Alongside their qualification, students will also have opportunities to develop employability skills, professional portfolios and experience relevant to future creative careers.

There are no traditional written exams on our Creative Media programme. Assessment is mainly through practical projects, coursework, portfolios and evidence of the creative process.

We also look to provide additional opportunities throughout the year, including:

Industry speakers
Creative workshops
Live and industry-style briefs
Trips and visits
Collaborative projects
Careers and progression support
Work-related and portfolio-building opportunities

Madleigh – Photography Business

Madleigh developed a strong interest in photography during her time at CRE8 and used the programme to build her creative skills, confidence and portfolio.

Following CRE8, she has progressed into running her own photography business, turning her creative interest into a real professional pathway.

Her journey shows how creative education can lead directly into self-employment and freelance opportunities within the industry.

Zak – University to Study Broadcasting

Zak developed a strong interest in media and broadcasting during his time at CRE8.

After completing the programme, he progressed to university to study Broadcasting, continuing to develop his skills and knowledge within the media industry.

Zak’s journey shows how CRE8 can provide a strong foundation for students who want to progress into higher education and pursue specialist creative careers.

Hollie – Digital Marketing Degree Apprenticeship

Hollie used her time at CRE8 to develop a broad range of creative and digital skills, including areas relevant to content, branding and marketing.

Following the programme, she progressed into a Digital Marketing Degree Apprenticeship, allowing her to continue her education while gaining professional industry experience.

Her progression demonstrates the range of routes available after CRE8, including higher-level apprenticeships that combine employment, experience and further study.