April 2025-2026 V1
BRAND GUIDE
OUR brand values
OUR brand should:
• Help to make us a visible organisation
• Support a sense of place on each campus
• Support Cornwall College Group’s values, mission and purpose
• Support the Group’s work and be audience relevant
• Help promote and clearly communicate our work
OUR Mission
Exceptional education and training for every learner to improve their career prospects.
Welcome
Visual branding (corporate identity) includes the logo, typefaces, images, colours and written style that gives Cornwall College Group (CCG) its unique look and feel in all visual communications – including clothing, badges, property, vehicles, stationery, publications, PowerPoint, digital, web site, signage, exhibitions and merchandise.
Visual branding is the visual aspect of the CCG brand, which is created by and made up of its people, values, policies and services as well as its external appearance. It is an important contributor of people’s image of the Group and its individual components.
Why is branding important?
Consistent visual branding is vital to raise awareness of the organisation. A clear, accessible, well-recognised brand will help us create a positive impression of our work and ensure CCG is seen as a professional and efficient organisation. CCG competes with other organisations for students, external funding, attention, and with other employers for staff and for media coverage. Our brand helps us to compete effectively and reinforce our core values.
EDI Matters
Act with integrity Take ownership
Learner first Think Sustainability
Our core college brands
CCG has one over arching logo strip,five core college brands and Concorde Recruitment brand:
• Cornwall College Group
• Bicton College
• Cornwall College
• Duchy College
• Falmouth Marine School
• Cornwall College University Centre
• Concorde Recruitment
Logo use
Our logos have been specially created, so please do not redraw or alter them. Please adhere to these guidelines:
• Do not redraw, alter or put on angle any logo
• Consider the logo’s size, relative to the other design elements
• Ensure the appropriate level of contrast between the logo and its background
• Do not break up the logo and use individual parts
• Use our logo on everything produced
• Liaise with the Marketing Team, as any marketing materials produced will need approval
Logo and image requests
If you wish to use the CCG group, individual brand logos or images please contact the Markcom Team or download them from Smug Mug online asset library. Email comms for guidelines on how to access SmugMug.
The CCG logo family lockup strip is used when multiple brands are used.
The CCG logo family lockup strip is used with CST logo or Concorde logo is used only on CCB or Concorde materials.
The dual brand lockup example.
Cornwall College Group
Colour – when used as main focus on corporate documents.
Colour – when used as main focus on corporate documents.
The revised version of the CCG logo was launched in 2025, on the 25th anniversary of the group and on achieving the Ofsted Outstanding rating across the group in January 2025.
The golden thread is also used on corporate items.
Bicton College
At the heart of the development of the Bicton brand was the College’s 70 year heritage of delivering high quality education and training for the rural economy.
Bicton College orginated from the Old Bictonion Association, we have chosen to celebrate this legacy by using the griffin, which featured on the crest from the original coat of arms. The logo was redesigned in 2017.
A white mono logo may be used over dark block colours or over dark imagery where there is contrast. A black mono logo maybe used over used over white/light block colours.
Cornwall College
Cornwall College was originally established in 1929. In 2001 it merged with St Austell college. The CC logo was developed to bring all of the general further education colleges under one unified brand.
A white mono logo maybe used over dark block colours or over dark imagery where there is contrast. A black mono logo may be used over used over white/light block colours.
Duchy
College
Duchy College has been delivering high quality specialist land-based education and training to the region for over 35 years. It has campuses at Stoke Climsland and Rosewarne. It also delivers the partnership horticulture degrees with Eden Project Learning. The logo was redesigned in 2021.
A white mono logo maybe used over dark block colours or over dark imagery where there is contrast. A black mono logo may be used over used over white/light block colours.
Falmouth Marine School
Falmouth Marine School has been delivering training to the boatbuilding, ship repair and shipbuilding industry since 1920. At the heart of the College’s logo is a sailing boat.
A white mono logo maybe used over dark block colours or over dark imagery where there is contrast. A black mono logo may be used over used over white/light block colours.
Cornwall College University Centre
Cornwall College achieved The Cornwall College University Centre status in 2022. In the CCUC branding we celebrate the black and gold used within our CCUC graduation gowns.
Branding across University Centre Campuses.
As well as awarding our own degrees, we also work in partnership with
Celebratory University Ident
In 2023 a celebratory ident was designed to be added to the CCUC certificates and graduation ceremony.
1. The Essence of ‘Generation Restoration’: Our University Centre’s ethos and vision, serves as the guiding light for this new logo. It’s not just a symbol; it’s a representation of our commitment to instilling growth, sustainability, and transformation.
2. The Tree of Life/Knowledge Ident: At its core, this design is a magnificent representation of a tree, signifying growth, grounding, eco consciousness, and sustainability. Its roots gracefully incorporate marine life and coastal elements, highlighting our deep connection to the environment.
3. A Journey Illustrated: The fish swimming into the design and the bird soaring out of the canopy vividly illustrate a transformative journey. The bird’s flight symbolises our role in empowering learners, providing them with the wings to soar and the wind beneath their wings to effect positive change.
4. A Nod to Celtic Heritage: In the roots of this tree, you’ll find a Celtic heart – a nod to the rich Celtic roots of Cornwall and Devon. It beautifully represents how education lies at the heart of our University Centre’s ‘Tree of Knowledge.’
5. A Nod to the Cornwall Coat Arms and the Duchy Cornwall: Fifteen bezants/coins in the tree’s canopy.
6. A Modern and Unique Design:
This modern design sets us apart as a University Centre that not only embraces innovation but also offers something distinct and extraordinary in its educational offerings.
7. Versatility in Application:
This design isn’t just aesthetically pleasing; it’s practical too. It lends itself perfectly to being a gold-foiled, embossed ident on our graduate certificates. Furthermore, it’s adaptable for digital, print and potential merchandise, ensuring our brand remains consistent.
8. Colour Options and Depth:
This design can be used in a variety of colour option, including a stunning 3D gradient gold fill, to add depth and richness to our brand.
9. Complementing Our Brand: Most importantly, this logo seamlessly complements our suite of University Centre branded materials, which feature organic dynamic leaf shapes, unifying our visual identity.
Concorde Recruitment
Concorde Recruitment has been working with businesses and candidates across the South West to match the right employee with the right employer in the region since 1996. See Concorde Recruitment Brand Guide for reference.
EDUCATION CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS
Our college sub brands
We do not want a plethora of sub brands as they weaken our visual branding. However sub brands are useful for external facing businesses, partnership projects or for projects where you need a softer approach. New sub brands are to be approved by the Head of Marketing and the Executive Leadership Team. We also have a limited approved number of sub brands that are used to market specific external-facing college businesses:
Across all college brands:
• CCSU
• Careers Hub and Job Spot
• Careers Skills Training
• Careers Hub and Job Spot Academies:
• The Plymouth Engineering Skills Centre
• The Golf Education Partnership Commercial brands
• Bicton College Dog Grooming (BC)
• Cloisters Restaurant (CC STAC) - TO BE RENAMED
• Cornwall Counselling Institute (CC CAM)
• Cornwall Counselling Institute Counselling Service
• Duchy College Dog Grooming (DCS & DCR)
• Duchy College Rural Business School
• Evolve Gym (CC CAM)
• Keay Theatre (CC STAC)
• Koko Hair & Beauty Salon (CC CAM & STAC)
• Rosewarne Nursery
• Trevenson Restaurant & Cafe (CC CAM) Partnerships
• Falmouth University (HE)
• Marjon (HE)
• Plymouth University (HE)
To be redesigned 2025/26
Our typefaces (fonts)
Our range of typefaces have been chosen for you as they are accessible and simple. No other typefaces should be used. For many partially sighted people, well-designed print information which follows clear print guidelines will be suitable and accessible. However, other people may need information in a different format, such as large print, audio or braille. If you have a request for large print please forward it to the team TLA or if you have any other request for other formats please contact the RNIB Transcript Centre South West at www.rnib.org.uk/professionals/accessibleinformation
Primary Typefaces
• Apex Apex (always proportional version)
• Raleway Raleway Raleway (FE propectus)
• Mundo Sans Mundo Sans
Design Secondary Typefaces
• COCO GOTHIC SMALL CAPS
Top tips for achieving clear print
• Concise headings
• Document body text size should be 12pt sans serif
(Raleway 11pt)
• Captions text size should be 10pt sans serif
• Forms text size should be 10pt sans serif
• The font you choose should be clear, avoiding anything stylised
• All body text should be left aligned
• Use bold sparingly; only highlight a few words rather than a paragraph
• Keep the text layout clear, simple and consistent
• Use sentence case on copy
• Don’t use blocks of capitalised letters, and try not to use italics or underlining
• Text shouldn’t be overlaid on images
• The substrate or coatings should not be glossy or reflective
• Ensure the paper is thick enough to prevent show through
• The contrast between the text and background is as high as possible
• All text should be evenly spaced and the same orientation on the page
• There should be no more than 70 characters/ eight words per line
• The space between columns of text should be large enough to be distinct
Standard accessibility statement (minimum of 14pt - to appear on large publications on the back cover)
If you would like this document in large print, other formats or another language, please contact us. We will do our best to help.
• Any information conveyed in colour or through images is also described through the text
• Do not hyphenate words
• Select coated or uncoated paper stock never gloss
• Check the contrast of designs: webaim.org
Reference websites sensorytrust.org.uk
rnib.co.uk webaim.org
Our copy
All marketing materials produced should be subbed by the Communications Team in Marketing to ensure copy has a consistent voice and is of a high standard
Top tips for writing or editing copy
• Use plain English
• Try to always use a provoking title/ subtitle
• Remember to include a call to action
• If we are referring to an organisation by quoting their full name, we would use capitals where they are used in that name eg ‘Cornwall College has...’ However, when we are referring to an organisation in a general way without giving its full name, we would use a lower case letter e.g. ‘ The college has...’ The college will...’
• All contact details to be written as follows 0330 123 2523 (do not use T: or Tel in front) bictondoggrooming@bicton.ac.uk (email should be a generic one not to an individual) cornwall.ac.uk (web address drop www)
• There is no need to capitalise the main words in a document title. However, if, in your writing, you are quoting the title of a document, you should quote it precisely, using capitals where appropriate.
• Acronyms – these are words formed from the initial letters of other words. Most acronyms are in block capitals (for example CCG, DC and ELT).
Use striking images to illustrate our visual branding whenever possible to showcase a quality student experience. Images should be inspiring and of a high standard and impact.
Top tips for using imagery
• Use an appropriate mix of image size
• It helps build a strong brand when images are repeatedly used
• Use simple, strong images with a clear focal point
• Be positive
• Use pictures of a broad range of role models to support the message
• Show images of engagement
Toppling tokenism
Tokenism is the practice of creating a false appearance of diversity by limited inclusion of members of a minority group, even if it is unintentional. We want to celebrate,encourage and reflect the equality, diversity and inclusion of CCG and the opportunities it provides for all through the use of text and images in all of our communications.
Overall considerations
• There should be honesty of intention, rather than seeking quick wins, in order to develop trust between CCG and the public
• Continuity – with larger publications and with other media there needs to be overall editorial eye to ensure balance
• Use images and examples of diversity relating to all curriculum areas –’ e.g. don’t just have ‘diversity images’ in a single section
• Keep language simple and straightforward; use plain English
Think sustainability
Our information can be communicated in a range of methods. Think Before You Print!
Printing and paper are inherently sustainable when used responsibly and print has great inclusive benefits. All the paper we use is recycled or produced from sustainably managed forests. Remember all electronic communications also has environmental impacts. So before even getting to design stage, consider your target audience, the information you have to communicate, quantities, distribution and storage. At the print specification stage, design print that is easily recyclable.
Print options
Digital print (cheaper and more environmentally friendly for small print runs and able to less carbon foot print for delivery) or collection:
• Treebrook Print (Camborne)
• St Austell Printers (St Austell)
• Control Print (Camborne)
• Brightsea Press (Exeter)
Litho print (cheaper for larger print runs)
We use printers that use vegetable/ soya inks with reduced isopropyl (IPA) and water based sealers.
The external printers we send litho jobs with are based in the South West and are environmentally conscious ie FSC, PEFC, BS8555 and ISO 14001 and use vegetable inks:
• sapc.co.uk/csr/sustainability
• brightsea.co.uk/environment
• deltoruk.com/green
• tradeprint.co.uk/environmental-policy
All our letterheads are printed on recycled paper.
Certification Schemes:
• EMAS is the highest standard that can be attained, followed by ISO 14001
• ISO 14001 is the next best, although standards vary under this scheme due to the emphasis on continual improvement
• FSC is about tracking the fibre ONLY and is NOT about environmental standards within the factory
• Greenmark is a scheme for smaller companies which lack the resources to undertake ISO 14001
All our sailflags use 100% recycled material. We are testing 100% recycled material on our banners.
To find out more about print and paper myths and facts visit twosides.info.
For all our signage we promote the use of recycled, durable and recyclable materials ie Dibond or recycled pvc Foamex for internal signage.
We are also testing the use of illuminated led flex face, as this signage system enables the face to be changed in the future.
All CCG print that is litho printed by the above printers may carry our CCG sustainably printed logo. There is no need to include the printer environmental logos when using this logo.
Business cards/ Letterheads/ Compliments slip/ E-shots/ Corporate publications
Our certificates
Our presentations and teams background
Powerpoint templates for all brands. Designed to be accessible to all. High contrast between backgrounds and text for clear print.
Teams backgrounds for
Our classroom posters
Our
prospectuses
This FE course guide was designed for school leavers and focuses on career pathways. The design is inspired by TikTok and the print uses spot neon (age 14-18).
This HE course guide was designed to embrace the ethos of ‘Be the change’ and with a strong sustainability ethos. The guides are designed to be welcoming, inspiring, selling the lifestyle of Cornwall. We are marketing to a local and a national audience (age 24-55).
Individual logos for each college can be used when needed. Keep logos separate as much as possible.
A white mono logo maybe used over dark block colours or over dark imagery where there is contrast. A black mono logo maybe used over used over white/light block colours.
Typefaces
Raleway Raleway Raleway Raleway Raleway Typeface for Quotes • Lazydog
Handrawn elements and bright colour palette for apprentice-focused branding
Checking new design concepts with the market audience April 2025
Apprenticeships - Employers
Limted colour palette and colour text blocks and white borders for employer-focused branding
Our students spaces and print
Student print is designed to be clean, bright and simple. The print carries the student rainbow element throughout. Learning support materials carry the rainbow tree on their print.
Curriculum pull-ups Subject header or HE course title
To include :
Partnership university logos where relevant.
Use one strong image where possible, featuring a happy student enjoying the course. Pull-ups with a mix of course areas or a CAM area i.e. Foundation Learning may use a montage of images as show above.
On all new pull ups remove career college and update the CCG strip
Print specification Pull-up, 850mm width
Alumni pull-ups
External
Landscape logo to be used in bottom right-hand corner.
Simple text to be read from the roadside while driving. Imagery to be dynamic and people-led. No contact details needed when
Our places - Creating a sense of place
On each of our community campuses we wish too create a sense of place through landscaping, art, signage and people involves designing and arranging these elements in ways that evoke strong connections, reflect local culture and history and enhance the unique character of a location. A ‘sense of place’ refers to the emotional, social, and cultural connections that people feel toward a specific location. It encompasses the meanings and values individuals or groups associate with that place, often derived from personal experiences, memories, and the unique characteristics of the location. Here’s a breakdown of its components:
1. Emotional Connection:
Feelings of belonging, attachment, or affection that individuals or communities develop towards a place.
2. Cultural Significance:
The historical, cultural, and social narratives that contribute to the identity of a place, making it meaningful to a group of people.
3. Physical Characteristics:
The natural or built environmental features that distinguish a place and contribute to its unique identity.
4. Personal Experiences:
Individual or shared experiences that occur in a place, influencing how it is perceived and valued.
Onsite
Landscaping
1. Use of Native Plants: Incorporate native flora that reflects the local ecosystem, creating a natural and authentic feel.
2. Thematic Gardens:
5. Symbolic Meaning:
The symbolic or metaphorical significance a place holds, often linked to larger concepts such as home, heritage, or spirituality. In summary, a sense of place is the complex interplay of emotions, experiences, and meanings that make a location special and significant to people.
Art
1. Public Art Installations:
Integrate sculptures, murals, and other artworks that reflect the local culture, history, or themes relevant to the community.
Design gardens that tell a story or reflect the cultural heritage of the area, such as a Zen garden, a Victorian garden, or a community vegetable garden.
3. Functional Spaces:
Create spaces for community interaction, such as seating areas, playgrounds, or outdoor classrooms.
4. Pathways and Trails: Design walking paths that guide visitors through the space, highlighting key features and encouraging exploration.
5. Water Features: Incorporate ponds, fountains, or streams to add a soothing auditory and visual element.
6. Seasonal Changes: Plan for year-round interest by selecting plants that offer seasonal blooms, autumn colors, and winter structure.
2. Interactive Art:
Install pieces that invite interaction, such as musical sculptures, kinetic art, or participatory installations.
3. Temporary Exhibits:
Rotate temporary art displays to keep the area dynamic and engaging, offering new experiences to repeat visitors.
4. Local Artists:
Commission local artists to create works that resonate with the community’s identity and values.
5. Cultural Events:
Host art fairs, performances, and festivals that bring people together and celebrate the local culture.
Signage
1. Informational Signs:
Provide educational signs that share the history, cultural significance, and natural features of the area.
2. Wayfinding Signs:
Ensure clear, aesthetically pleasing signage to help visitors navigate the space comfortably.
3. Interpretive Signs:
Use interpretive signage to tell stories about the area, its people, and its environment, enhancing the visitor’s understanding and appreciation.
4. Design Consistency:
Maintain a cohesive design language for all signage to reinforce the area’s identity.
5. Local Languages and Symbols: Incorporate local languages, dialects, and culturally significant symbols to make signage more relatable and meaningful to the community.
Website, video and social platforms
If learners, staff and visitors enjoy their welcome and experience on campus they will return and may also share their experience on social platforms. Creating insta moments/ TikTok trends will help promote your brand further through peer influencing. 70% of people are influenced by friends’ posts on social media when deciding whether to purchase products and services.
Integration of Elements
1. Thematic Unity:
Ensure that landscaping, art, and signage are thematically aligned to create a cohesive experience.
2. Community Involvement:
Engage the community in the design process to ensure that the space reflects their values and desires, fostering a stronger sense of ownership and connection.
Our campus signage
4. Accessiblity:
Accessible for all.
5. Sustainability:
Design with sustainability in mind, using eco-friendly materials and practices to ensure that the space remains vibrant and relevant for future generations.
3. Historical and Cultural References:
Incorporate elements that reflect the history and culture of the area, creating a deeper sense of place and connection to the past.
By thoughtfully combining these elements, you can create a space that not only looks beautiful but also resonates deeply with the people who use and cherish it.
All campuses should have signage with the latest branding that gives a professional and warm welcome onto our campuses.
Directional signage should only be used from main footpath entrances and car parks to ‘Reception’ as this should always be a visitor’s first point of call for safeguarding purposes. Commerical businesses will have strong branding with clear wayfinding.
Campus maps should have a 3D feel and be situated at all key arrival locations so people can navigate their way around campus via recognisable site land marks ‘– with a useful ‘You Are Here’ for context.
All buildings should be clearly named and branded to enable wayfinding and also welcome students and visitors. Large building wayfinding: use a floor or zonal approach, with directories at every point of access or stairway and floor plans to provide context where required.
Receptions should all have similar content, that is tailored to the specific brand and campus:
• TV welcome screens
• Alumni case studies
• Employer endorsements
Curriculum areas to feature:
• PPE boards
• Alumni case studies
• Classroom poster set
• Learning spaces to be designed to be industry standard, engaging, modern and welcoming
ID badges, lanyards, t-shirts
An example of CCG branded clothing. Where possible teaching staff and students source clothing in their darkest brand colour or black clothing, as clothing is easier to match year on year. Please liaise with your Head of Campus with final guidance.
Estates team – Green on all sites Site Services team – Blue on all sites
of
Safeguarding leaflet that is inserted in every staff and student ID card plastic wallet.
Logo strip to be applied to the bonnet 900mm X 240mm
Mini buses/ Pool cars/ Buses
Artwork to be updated on new bus contract 25/26 and minibus suite to be updated on new contract
Logo strip to be applied to the lower back door section 800mm X 200mm
First Bus Fleet Livery 2020
Cornwall College
Cornwall College