Telford College welcomed over 1250 students to its annual Freshers’ Fayre, where they got to browse and meet universities, local services and employers.

More than 50 exhibitors attended, including companies such as the NHS, Epson, Pave Aways, Muller and Coca Cola, whilst Keele University, Bangor University, Chester University, University College Birmingham and the University of South Wales gave students a flavour of the progression opportunities at the end of their studies.

They were also joined by staff from the college, promoting student services, careers, higher education and employability courses, as well as the brand new Sports Academy launching this year.

Rosie Baldwin-Jones, enrichment co-ordinator at the college, said: “We’ve got a great selection of stalls for students to visit; we have charities, universities and local businesses who love to chat to their local audience. We’ve had a lot of local sports clubs and activities who are looking to get new members too.

“It’s been so busy. Our students have really enjoyed it and it’s been a great opportunity for them to network. Ever since the pandemic, students really haven’t had the chance to chat to new people so events like this help them to engage.

“We’ve also got a scavenger hunt for students to go and chat to every exhibitor, whilst also getting as much guidance and support as possible to help them with their future.”

Ellie Campbell, undergraduate student recruitment and access officer at Keele University, said: “Keele are here to help students integrate into Telford College and support them making their next steps. We’re going to be on campus throughout the next year to help students write their personal statements, budgeting and applications for university.

“It’s been a great event; we’ve had a lot of interest from new students about the courses we offer. We have new courses in sports, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, and games design.”

Amber Crisp, safeguarding administrator for the college’s BeSafe team, said: “BeSafe are here to meet students and let them know that we’re a service that the college provides.

“People sometimes shy away from our support, but we’re helping promote the fact our doors are open to every student who needs support, whether it’s a safeguarding issue or not. We also offering sanitary towels for the students that need them to help tackle period poverty.”

One of the charities at the event included Midlands Air Ambulance, which was recruiting for volunteers to work at its charity shops.

Helen Perks explained: “We have nine in the region and we’re looking to give students vital work experience outside of college.

“We have a spin the wheel game, where students can win merchandise such as pens, pencils, badges and sweets. It’s been a very busy day for us, and we’ve spoken to so many interested students.”