College community comes together for another successful Christmas Community Market

On Wednesday 10 December, EKC Dover College opened its doors to the local community for our annual Christmas Community Market, bringing together students, staff, families and local residents for a vibrant afternoon of festive fun.

The market was packed with creative stalls and activities. Visitors enjoyed free bauble decorating with Dover Artswork, Christmas hair and nails from Hair and Beauty students, and a festive arts and crafts table run by Early Years.

Art and Design students sold hand-decorated baubles, while Travel and Tourism students hosted a Guess the Destination game and a Destination Wish Tree.

Engineering students showcased handmade coasters and phone stands, Plumbing students crafted unique copper pipe decorations, and BeChange Community Hub offered crocheted gifts and decorations. A gift tombola and free refreshments from the Students’ Union added to the warm, community feel.

Father Christmas welcomed children into his grotto, offering small gifts to young visitors, while the College choir entertained the crowds with Christmas songs, encouraging all to join in. Summer Faces was also on-hand, providing fun face painting and temporary tattoos for all attendees.

Festive decorations, themed backdrops ready for photo opportunities, and a display of Christmas scenes – created as part of an inter-department Christmas competition – helped set the perfect atmosphere.

Event organiser, Summer Smith, Student Experience Officer, said: “I am blown away with how well the Christmas Community Market went. The stalls were all well thought out, they each offered something different. and students manned the stalls brilliantly.

“Our choir brought everyone together and it was lovely seeing everyone singing. Our guests all commented on how lovely the day was for them, and I am so pleased with how well it went.”

This year’s Christmas Community Market raised a combined total of £374.60, donating money to BeChange Aylesham, The Royal British Legion and Dover Smart Project.

With strong turnout from students, staff, members of the public and even visitors from EKC Aylesham, the College is already looking forward to making building on this success and making next year’s event even bigger and better.

We thank everyone who had a stall – students, staff and external visitors alike, and appreciate all members of the public who took the time to join us for some Christmas fun.