Thursday 4 December 2014 GSAL’s ADT department has had a hand in designing an innovative wi-fi enabled reindeer, which will be a first in Leeds – perhaps the world! Bludolph, the blue-nosed, interactive reindeer, has been designed as part of a project with Leeds digital communications company aql, which paired up with sixth form students to create something out of the ordinary for the new seasonal Leeds Reindeer Trail, part of the Magical Leeds festive programme. As a sponsor of the trail, where 15 life-size reindeer installations have been created to surprise and delight residents and visitors to Leeds city centre, aql tasked the students to transform their blank Rudolph using communications technology as their theme. Their modern take on the reindeer design features an in-built camera which takes pictures of Bludolph’s guests and sends them to their smartphone. Those who spot Bludolph in The Light shopping centre just have to text the number displayed on the bright blue deer for an interactive Christmas experience and a seasonal selfie. Helen Clapham, director of external relations at GSAL, said: “Bludolph has seen our A-level product design students follow a commercial brief to bring Rudolph into the 21st century, and that’s exactly what they’ve done with this forward-thinking design supported by AQL. We’re really proud of what they’ve achieved.” Deborah Copeland, marketing and communications director from Leeds and Partners, the company behind the Leeds Reindeer Trail, added: “Bludolph stands out amongst our 15-strong herd of reindeer that have flown into the city for the festive period, and we’re delighted that the students have come up with a world first for our festive campaign, they’ve done a brilliant job creating such a unique installation. “Look out for him when you’re on the Leeds Reindeer Trail, where you’ll discover a host of extravagantly decorated stags dotted around the city centre this Christmas. Share your reindeer selfies on social media along the way using #MagicalLeeds to win prizes.” General Sixth Form News
