AADC is excited to announce the second intake of AdVice with James Rickard, a four-week, in-person mentoring course designed for emerging creatives. This fresh run, commencing Thu Oct 23, follows the resounding success of the inaugural program, which concluded in June with outstanding outcomes.

The first cohort saw 13 driven students sharpen their creative craft under the hands-on guidance of multi‑award‑winning creative director and former AADC Co‑President James Rickard, mastering everything from brief unpacking to art direction. Delivered in a small‑group setting at Showpony, participants benefitted from real‑world briefs, instant feedback, peer learning and a collaborative studio‑style environment.

“I’m thrilled to bring back AdVice following the energy and growth we saw in the first group. This course went beyond teaching technique to instill creative confidence and I can’t wait to do it again – helping more early‑career creatives find their unique voice and breakthrough,” said James Rickard.

Luke Cussans, AADC Chair of Education, said “The first AdVice intake demonstrated exactly why this format works – intensive mentorship, honest critique and immersed learning accelerate growth like nothing else. We are bringing it back so quickly due to popular demand.”

Among the standout success stories from the first intake is Annie Firth, who has since secured a role at Martins Brand House. “AdVice was a game‑changer. James is an engaging and inspiring mentor – he sets homework that pushes you to think critically, gives feedback that matters and makes every session feel purposeful. I walked away with not just creative tools, but real confidence and it’s already opening doors for me,” she said.

With such strong early outcomes, AADC is eager to welcome new applicants. The course is structured as four weekly, in‑person sessions (two hours each), focused on real briefs, bold ideation, impactful copywriting and confident art direction – all taught in a collaborative, low‑cost format that keeps accessibility front and centre.

Interested applicants are invited to submit their expression of interest by Mon Oct 13, with limited places available.