Milton Keynes College has partnered with Starship Technologies to promote its university-level courses using the city’s autonomous delivery robots.
The campaign sees Starship’s six-wheeled robots carrying Milton Keynes College branding as they travel across Milton Keynes as part of the company’s existing delivery service. Better known for delivering Co-op orders to residents, the robots will now also act as mobile advertising platforms highlighting the college’s higher education offer.
The campaign is aimed at people considering their next step after completing Level 3 qualifications, those looking for a local route into university-level study and adults thinking about a career change.
Starship launched its first commercial UK delivery service in Milton Keynes in 2018 and its robots have since become a familiar sight across the city. They also played a role in Milton Keynes’ successful city status campaign in 2021 by delivering the official bid to Buckingham Palace.
The campaign’s artwork includes a bird’s-eye view of Milton Keynes’ road network, incorporating a reference to the city’s distinctive roundabouts.
Laura Black, Group Director for Adults, HE and South Central Institute of Technology at Milton Keynes College Group, said: “We’re very excited about this innovative new campaign, which will help to raise awareness of the fantastic university level courses available at Milton Keynes College.
“We offer a wide range of university level courses, including our new degrees validated by The Open University, higher level apprenticeships and Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) and Higher National Certificates (HNCs). Studying a university level course with Milton Keynes College allows students to benefit from expert tutors, excellent facilities and lower fees than most universities.
“So, do give the robots a wave if you see them, and visit our website if you’re interested in taking your learning to the next level at Milton Keynes College.”
Lisa Johnson, Vice President for Starship Technologies, said: “We love Milton Keynes – it’s our robots’ first home in the UK. We’re always on the lookout for things we can do to help MK organisations.
“We’re chuffed to bring Milton Keynes College’s message on university level study to local people. It’s a great partnership that suits our robots very well – they’ve never looked so stylish.”
The Milton Keynes College-branded robots will continue operating across Milton Keynes as part of Starship’s existing delivery network until later this year.
