EPNE colleges launch virtual open days

Education Partnership North East is offering its prospective students the chance to experience college life without leaving their homes. 

Sunderland College, Northumberland College and Hartlepool Sixth Form have moved their open days online during the COVID-19 outbreak to reassure school leavers, offer advice and guidance and help them prepare for their future. 

These innovative live and interactive events will give students the opportunity to talk to directly to teaching staff and recruitment teams via live chat and over the phone to find out more about the courses on offer, accommodation and funding. 

Attendees can explore campuses and facilities with 360-degree tours, while those interested in securing their place straight away will be able to do so instantly via an application fast-track service. 

Craig Millar, EPNE Group Director of Marketing and Engagement, said: 

“This is a challenging time for young people and their parents, and we want to ensure that there is no anxiety around next steps to post-16 education. Our Recruitment and Engagement Team are working closely with local schools and directly with all our applicants to support them in the transition to our colleges.  

“It seemed natural that our Open Events must continue. Our websites are packed with resources to guide prospective students on careers and the routes available to them next year. Our virtual open events will enable prospective students to chat with our subject experts who can reassure and offer the same advice as would be delivered at a real open event.  

“The virtual open events are also open to adults thinking about new challenges and opportunities for next academic year.” 

The first virtual open day will take place at Northumberland College on Tuesday 31st March (4.30-7pm) where staff from areas such as hair and beauty, construction, engineering, travel and tourism, education and sport will be available to answer questions. 

Hartlepool Sixth Form will follow on Tuesday 2nd April, with Sunderland College’s virtual event on Tuesday 12th May. 

To pre-register, visit www.sunderlandcollege.ac.uk, www.northumberland.ac.uk, or www.hartlepoolsixth.ac.uk and a member of the recruitment team will be in contact with further details about these pioneering events.