USP College Art Students Steal the Show at Southend Halloween Parade
- Posted 29 Oct 2025
Southend’s Halloween Parade returned bigger and bolder this year, and among the standout attractions was a spectacular float created by USP College creative students. Building on last year’s success - when Level 3 Illustration and Graphics students wowed crowds with a towering 14-foot Wendigo puppet - the 2025 project pushed creativity even further.
This year students were challenged to design a float mounted on a vehicle, simulating the competitive tendering process that professional artists face. The students had to produce detailed proposals and present them to the Events Team from Southend City Council. The winning concept, designed by Leon Doveaston, became the centerpiece of the parade.
Collaboration was key, with students working together on construction and painting, blending personal expression into a cohesive design
The final float featured three striking 10-foot Jack-in-the-Boxes and vibrant banners cascading down the sides of the vehicle.. First-year students added their own flair by creating illuminated rod puppets carried through the parade, while Level 3 Performing Arts students joined in costume, performing alongside the float to amplify the spectacle.
This immersive project not only showcased artistic talent but also gave students invaluable real-world experience, proving that creativity and teamwork can truly light up the streets.
The project, organised by teachers Dave and Tara Bowman, was praised by students as fun and inspiring, with many saying they can’t wait to do it again next year. USP College congratulates all involved and extends a huge thank you to the dedicated teachers who made this experience possible.
If your artistic and looking at your Post-GCSE options, please come and visit us at Seevic or Palmer's Open Evenings and explore all our creative courses.
You can book a free a spot for the next Open Evening here.
