Telford College welcomed more than 1500 students to its annual freshers’ fair, where they got to meet universities, employers and a wide range of leisure providers and community organisations.
More than 50 exhibitors attended the event at the Wellington campus, including companies such as Weston Park, the NHS, Telford and Wrekin Council as well as local charities, representatives from the armed forces and public services.
Universities were also on hand to give students a flavour of progression opportunities at the end of their studies. They were also joined by staff from the college, promoting student services, higher education and apprenticeships.
Shaun Bickley, Student Support Manager at Telford College, said: “Our freshers’ fair is one of the most important moments in the academic year.
“It gives students chance to discover the full breadth of opportunities available to them beyond the classroom, from enrichment activities and wellbeing support to employer networks and university pathways.
“It’s all about helping them feel confident, connected and excited about the journey ahead.”
He added: “Events like this play a huge role in building a sense of belonging. Starting college can feel overwhelming, so bringing everything together in one vibrant, welcoming space helps students settle in quickly.
“They can meet new people, ask questions, explore options and start shaping their own personalised college experience from day one.”
“The fair also strengthens our relationships with local employers, universities and community partners. By engaging directly with students, they can showcase real opportunities, offer guidance and inspire future ambitions.
“It’s a brilliant way to help young people understand the routes available to them – whether that’s higher education, apprenticeships or stepping straight into the world of work.”
Joy Brerton, schools and colleges liaison officer at Wrexham University, said: “It’s been a very positive experience today. The learners have been very engaging. Some of them know what they want to do; others have no idea, but that’s not a problem at this stage. They’ve been very informative and have asked lots of questions about who we are and what they can study with us.”
Lizzie Higgins, health improvement practitioner at Telford & Wrekin Council, was promoting Healthy Telford’s initiative to improve the health and lifestyles of young people across the region. “It’s been a well-attended event, really good fun, and lots of interactions with students who asked some amazing questions about their health.
We’re hoping that we’ll get lots of referrals into our healthy lifestyles service to support them. We’ve met lots of different colleagues from different organizations, and yeah, it’s been a really good day, thank you very much.”
Joel Smith, also known as The Shropshire Dungeon Master, runs table-top game sessions at the college. “I’m privileged to have a hobby stand here today. Everyone I have spoken to has been engaged, want to learn and know what’s going on, and it’s a fun thing to do. It’s a fun game to play, and especially like being able to tell the kids as well that I’m going to be here with them like teaching them the hobby over the next few weeks.
“I’ve gotten some real enthusiasm for the tabletop club here at Telford College. I’m very, very excited to get started. If the enthusiasm I’ve had today is anything like the enthusiasm I get then, it’s going to be a good time. It is going to be a very good time.”
