The restrictions imposed by the commercial agreement encouraged the search for new audiences and distribution opportunities. Before the end of 1933, Tallents had commissioned the first two educational series, each comprising four separate designs on a theme, to be produced initially for schools. This was the start of the schools poster scheme that would continue until the end of the decade.

The early "prestige" posters such as History of Communications (1933) by John Armstrong were intended to encourage an understanding of the history and modern development of communications among young people. In another educational commission of that year, Overseas Communications by Harold Sandys Williamson, the Post Office's modernity is presented with reference to the machines associated with the services.

The production of educational prints was part of a movement, from the late 19th century onwards, to integrate the development of visual intelligence into the school curriculum. The first Post Office series to be launched was Overseas Communications. In November 1934 around 25,000 posters in royal format were distributed free to schools, along with associated leaflets. These posters were also produced in the larger quad crown for distribution to some Post Offices, where they were displayed continually for four months. The intention was to improve the appearance of public offices and create interest among the public.

These early commissions reflect the interests of the fine art membership of the Poster Advisory Committee. Kenneth Clark, its Chairman, commented later on the aim to "raise the level of public taste". In 1935 Stephen Tallents wrote that unlike the GPO Film Unit, fine artists had difficulty in getting "under the skin" of Post Office material. This is addressed in Outposts of Britain where photography, a modern method of mechanical production, is incorporated.