EKC Folkestone College students filled The Studio yesterday for the annual Freshers’ Fayre, as new and returning students came together to start the new academic year.
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 Studio in the Ambition building offering something for everyone. Students could access everything from free sexual advice from NHS Sexual Health to advice about gambling from Breakeven, being able to hit through reusable martial arts breaking boards with Mirai Karate Dojo and chances to win sweets and stickers with our SEO (Student Experience Officer), Debbie.
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 Kent Community Health, KRAN (Kent Refugee Action Network) and our Molly from our Career Advice. 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, Debbie, was also on hand throughout the event and highlighted the value of the Freshers’ Fayre for students.
Debbie said: “It’s lovely to see students engaging with outside businesses and organisations that can support them. It was really good to see Folkestone and Hythe District Council here to help get them registered to vote, a fantastic opportunity for our students and there’s such as great buzz.”
The Freshers’ Fayre also brought together a range of local businesses, charities and community organisations, including Leas Cliff Hall, Natwest, Chloe Scott Dance Company and Kent Choices. Each organisation offered something valuable for our students, whether that was advice and support and information about local services or opportunities to get involved and make a difference within the community.
Sam, the Marketing Assistant from Leas Cliff Hall commented: “We’ve been advertising our shows and the theatre to the students here today and it’s good to see that they’re all so personable and excited and there’s some great characters here. We can’t wait to be working more closely with East Kent Colleges Group in the near future.”
Students also enjoyed the opportunity to get involved and discover something new.
Lewis who currently studies Level 2 Carpentry enjoyed exploring the different stalls and taking part in the activities. Lewis explained his first thoughts of College: “It’s been amazing so far, great for making new friends and good facilities.”
Another Level 2 Carpentry student, Alistair, added: “It’s good for a social life and you can meet new people during your course.”
Ayden, another Carpentry student says: “My favourite thing so far about EKC Folkestone College is the amount of support I’ve been able to get. Any issues I have there’s always someone who’s there to help.”
Louise, a Level 2 Fashion and Marketing student added: “My favourite thing about College so far are the other students, they are very supportive and the students I’ve made friends with so far have felt like one big family.”
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.
SU President, Chloe, was also at the Freshers Fayre recruiting for the Students’ Union, she told us about why the Freshers Fayre was so important: “Everyone just comes together, you get freebies, and it is good fun. Students get to talk to local businesses and learn about different things, and everyone just gets along.”
A huge thank you to all the companies, charities and organisations who joined us, including:
Folkestone and Hythe District Council
Kran (Kent Refugee Action Network)
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 Chloe or Debbie in the Welcome Building or learn more online.
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