The College was full of energy this week as students headed to the annual Freshers’ Fayre, discovering the wide range of support, opportunities, and activities available to them throughout their time at College. From fun activities and free treats to useful advice and opportunities to connect with local organisations, there was plenty for students to explore.
A fantastic selection of stalls filled the refectory, offering something for everyone. Students could access everything from ‘Hook a Duck’ game, PureGym’s prize wheel, creating your own tote bag with Artswork to Dover smART Project and sexual health advice from Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust.
Alongside the fun and activities, the event gave students the chance to find out more about the support available to them at College and within the wider community, including EKC Training and the Students’ Union. It was a great opportunity to ask questions, discover new services and learn about ways to get involved beyond the classroom.
Our Student Experience Officer, Summer Smith, was also on hand throughout the event and highlighted the value of the Freshers’ Fayre for students.
Summer said: “For me, it’s a nice introduction to what I do for the students, but also for the organisations we work with as well. Everyone that’s been invited to host a stall today is someone we work with throughout the year.
“Charities like Mental Health, Pride and Young Carers, but also fun things as well for example the art workshops, just so students know what they can do locally as well as College.”
The Freshers’ Fayre also brought together a range of local businesses, charities and community organisations, including Involve Kent, Wave Community Bank, Kent Police and Crime Commissioner and many more. Each organisation offered something valuable for our students, whether that was advice and support, information about local services or opportunities to get involved and make a difference within the community.
Louise is the Placemaking Creative Producer for Artswork, a charity that supports young people through creative practice and through leading their own creative projects. Today they did a practical workshop where our students were able to create their own reusable tote bags with an eco-friendlier version of vinyl.
Louise said: “It’s important for us to be here today because we love meeting new people who perhaps might not realise what they’re interested in, it’s fabulous to see so many organisations coming together and working together to support young people. Also, the vast variety of things you can do in the Dover area, we’ve really enjoyed being here.”
Students also enjoyed the opportunity to get involved and discover something new.
Lilly who has just started studying Level 2 Travel and Tourism enjoyed exploring the different stalls and taking part in the activities. She said “I’ve enjoyed being able to get all the free stuff today.”
For Seth studying Level 2 Plumbing one of the highlights was the sexual health information. He added: “It was really important and great to see that here – it got the point across.”
With the new academic year now underway, the enthusiasm and excitement of the Freshers’ Fayre has given students a great start to the year. We’re looking forward to seeing our students make the most of the opportunities ahead, from getting involved with the Students’ Union to making new connections and enjoying everything College life has to offer.
A huge thank you to all the companies, charities and organisations who joined us, including:
Kent Police and Crime Commissioner
Parental Acceptance Shaun Dawson/ Poppy Love
Sexual health | Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust
Dover District Council: Electoral Services
If you have any questions or would like to find out more about getting involved with the Students’ Union this academic year, you can find Summer, our Student Experience Officer, in the Student Centre or learn more online now.
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