Colleges Week | FE News

#CollegesWeek

Colleges Week is an annual event organised by the Association of Colleges (AoC) to showcase and celebrate further education colleges in the UK.

During the Week, colleges across the country host open days, taster sessions, campus tours, workshops, and other activities to give prospective students and the community an inside look at college life. Whether you’re considering applying to college or are just curious to learn more, This Week is a great opportunity to explore the excellent education options that colleges provide.

Some of the key things you can expect during the Week:

• Open days and campus tours – Get a feel for the college environment and facilities by taking a tour and speaking with current students and staff.
• Taster sessions – Sit in on sample lectures and classes to experience what lessons are like in everything from beauty therapy to engineering.
• Workshops and demonstrations – Interact with expert college staff to see some of the incredible skills taught, from culinary arts to automotive technology.
• Student panels – Hear first-hand from current students what it’s like to study at college, from social life to career prep.
• Application advice – Get tips from college admissions officers on choosing the right course and submitting a strong application.

Colleges Week demonstrates the vast range of academic and vocational courses available at colleges for school leavers, career changers, and those looking to upskill. Whether aiming to pursue higher education or enter employment, colleges provide an accessible and supportive route to take the next step.

Be sure to check out the events happening at your local college during Colleges Week!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was the date of Colleges Week moved from October to the spring?

The date was moved to avoid clashing with the likely general election campaign period in the autumn. Other October conflicts included:

• Party conference season
• Parliamentary recesses
• Close timing with AoC’s Annual Conference and Exhibition.

The spring date ensures a term-time week for all and more space for campaigning.

What if I have more than one constituency in my college group? How should I approach organising hustings events?

When organizing hustings events, it’s best to focus on the specific constituency in which they’re being held. Even if college groups span multiple constituencies. This will increase the likelihood of attendance because politicians may decline to participate in hustings outside their constituency. However, it’s still worthwhile to reach out to a wider audience across constituencies. Consider using various tools such as invitation letters, virtual panels, social media, and innovative celebrations to showcase your advocacy. For Colleges Week across all your campuses. But when it comes to organising specific in-person hustings, it’s best to keep the focus local.