Local businesses joined the event, hosting a series of interactive sessions and games to enrich the experience for learners.
Companies included Morrisons, YMCA Newark & Sherwood, Letsxcape Together, Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, and Newark and Sherwood District Council.
Barbecue food was provided by G.H. Porter Provisions and served from the horsebox Coffee Shop in its first outing since being renovated and repurposed by Newark College construction learners.
The outside quad area was dressed with colourful parasols, deck chairs and bunting to provide a designated ‘chill out’ area for students.
The College also gave out free re-usable bottles to encourage students to drink more water and use less plastic. These can be refilled at water stations around the campus.
Media student, Jermaine Jones enjoyed the day. He said: “It’s been really good, I got some free food, played table football and I think it’s a good way to get to know more people here.”
Sue Stott, Community Relations Officer from Newark and Sherwood District Council, exhibited at the event. She said: “We’re here in conjunction with Morrisons to promote health and wellbeing.
“We’ve been handing out fresh fruit, food bags and recipe cards. The students have been really enthusiastic about engaging with us.”
Caroline Cartwright, Marketing Manager for the YMCA Newark & Sherwood, commented: “We’re excited to be at Newark College today and are looking forward to building opportunities for students in the Newark area through the YMCA and when we open our building fully in Spring 2022.
“We’ve got our GaGa Pit with us, it’s an inflatable, below the knee, dodgeball game and it’s great to see the students having a go and having fun together in there.”
Penny Taylor, the Lead for Education and Training at Newark College, said:
“It’s been wonderful to see our students and staff members having fun today. Through our Big Welcome activities, we’re helping our students feel comfortable, so they settle into college life quickly. They’re engaging with their tutors and classmates and building relationships that will enhance their learning experience and in turn their motivation.
“The well-being and happiness of our students is a top priority and today learners have also been able to meet our friendly student services team, so they know who to contact if they need additional support with their learning, mental health, work experience, finance etc.
“We’re delighted to be able to give such a warm welcome to our new and returning students, especially after the challenges last year due to Covid-19. We look forward to building on this further over the next few weeks and as the academic year progresses.”
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