The College buzzed with activity as the annual Freshers Fayre kicked off the academic year, giving students a taste of College life with fun activities, free food, and fantastic entertainment.
The campus was lined with a variety of interesting stalls, from live animal handling to information about local gyms that students can use in their free time. The day offered something for everyone to discover and enjoy, whether they were new to College or returning for another year.
Many stalls were also offering advice to students about maintaining good mental health, the support available at College and how to get involved with the Students’ Union (SU).
The brand-new SU president, Jack, was at the event, sharing how important the SU is for students’ voices to be heard. Jack shared: “Freshers Fayre gets the College to engage with each other and bring our students together as one.
“As SU President this year I’m excited to bring the community together and to create more opportunities, such as today, for us to do so.
“I really like today because I get to talk to students that I haven’t met before.”
Amongst the stalls there were also charities such as ADHD Sheppey and Men Talk. They offered support to learners as well as explaining how students could get involved and do their part to support the community.
The Light cinema, based in Sittingbourne, also joined the celebrations handing out free popcorn throughout the event. This was well enjoyed by both staff and students!
Level 1 Progression student Missy loved the event and being able to take part. They shared what they enjoy about College life so far, saying: “All the staff and the students are understanding here. If you have a problem or an issue, everyone will help, no one lets you down and it’s a really nice environment to be part of.”
Fellow Level 1 student Shannon loved how today’s event brought the whole College together as a community, saying: “My course is structured really well and there’s lots of breaks to take part in fun opportunities like this. Everyone’s lovely.”
The entertainment did not stop there as our learners could test their skill on activities including a rowing machine brought by Snap Fitness where they battled their new friends and challenged themselves.
Pasha, our Student Experience Officer, was in charge of organising and running the event was extremely pleased with the day, exclaiming: “I think this is the busiest Freshers Fayre we’ve had yet and it’s been great to see so many students making the most of the opportunities today.
“Freshers Fayre is a great opportunity for our students to meet lots of local charities, businesses and get benefits such as discounts on gym memberships.
“It’s a great event particularly for our new students because they get a little bit of enrichment whilst they settle into College. They get to experience the kind of atmosphere that College has and see what future events can look like.”
The energy throughout the Freshers’ Fair has set the tone for the year ahead and we look forward to a year of success, growth, and plenty of exciting SU events to enjoy.
Thank you to all the companies who attended, including:
If you have any further questions or would like to get involved with the SU this academic year, you can find Pasha in the Student Centre or learn more online.
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