Students across college group took on series of fundraising challenges

Hundreds of students across Sunderland College, Northumberland College and Hartlepool Sixth Form College took on a series of challenges to promote mental health awareness.

Through the challenges, hosted at each college’s campuses, the students united in support of the British Inspiration Trust (BRIT) through activities with the theme of ‘24’ for this year’s event, which included storytelling, football, well-being walking, practising wound care techniques, outdoor play and creation of positive affirmations – all being 24 minutes in length.

This is the second year Education Partnership North East’s (EPNE) colleges have worked as a team for the BRIT Challenge, completing a total of 4,335 miles of walking, running, cycling or rowing based activities in 2023.

John Rushworth, Associate Principal for Enhanced Curriculum at Sunderland College said: “We were delighted that student across all of our EPNE campuses took part in the annual BRIT Challenge ‘feelgood fundraiser’ to raise awareness for mental health, fitness and wellbeing.

“Improving and supporting the mental health of our students is always a priority and the BRIT challenge is a great way to have achieved this whilst also contributing to vital fundraising for charity.”

BRIT aspires be an integral part of sustained change within the Education Sector, and EPNE will continue to act as an enabler and offer the BRIT Challenge as a catalyst to improve mental health, fitness, and wellbeing.

UK universities, colleges, specialist colleges and Students’ Unions were invited to unite with BRIT and hold their own inclusive Challenge to improve mental health and fitness, all whilst raising funds for BRIT.

This collectively powerful approach is integral to supporting young adult, student, and staff mental health in the short, medium and long-term.

Designed to be completed by individuals working as a team, the different challenges embrace any activity that promotes health, fitness and wellbeing and supports students and staff of all abilities.