I've been working as Graphic Designer and Illustrator for around 40 years, I've also taught and mentored people in graphic arts.

The majority of my career has been spent working freelance, creating practical visual communication solutions. Students will of course need creative flair to succeed in this field of work, but without combining that creativity with practical knowledge of tools, techniques and the design/print and online publishing process they will struggle. Traditional academic training is light on the technical aspect of graphic arts and often a "work placement" route gives little time to nurture creative side. Both are needed to give someone a solid start in this vocation. I think the first step is to see where the strengths are in a person's skill set and while giving encouragement in developing that, focus on the weaker aspects to bring them up to an all-round professional standard.