Amplify

We gave students lots of good reasons why they should choose ARU at Clearing through a series of short fast-paced films.

Brief

ARU set out to communicate direct, straightforward messages for Clearing 25. They wanted to stand out and boost student numbers with a bold approach that played to their strengths and put them front of mind. We especially wanted to target mind-changers, the undecided and students who wait until Clearing to apply, as the trend for more students making their choices at Clearing continues to grow. We didn’t have long to get everything off the ground, but we quickly set about understanding ARU’s big sells.

Solution

We worked with the team to relaunch their Amplify concept with ‘You. Amplified,’ in a positive and energetic style that utilised existing student imagery. The bright animated design reflected the concept of how students can amplify their skills, potential and futures with the support of ARU.

The real star of the show however was the very direct messaging. We gave students quick-fire reasons why they should choose to amplify themselves at ARU. Working with the ARU team and their media agency, we created a variety of high impact 6, 9, 15 and 30-second films. They covered everything from employability, campus locations and gold-rated teaching to societies, start-ups and student discounts. All with a distinctive sonic brand at the end to help set ARU apart in the sector. We even created specific films for subjects and course areas that needed a boost.

Results

The campaign was a big hit at Clearing with video views up 189% YOY, 100% view rate increasing 3%, and a drastically reduced CPC and CPA, with a higher CTR to accompany it. It was so successful with students and colleagues, we were asked to create a new set of videos in the same style for their main 2026 undergraduate campaign.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better creative partner for Clearing 2025 than Waterfall. Despite incredibly tight deadlines, they moved at pace with us every step of the way. Their responsiveness, creativity and understanding of the brand meant we were able to deliver a campaign that truly reflected ARU’s energy, personality and purpose.”

Jessica Armes, Senior Campaign Officer, Anglia Ruskin University