College Extra

Your student experience

When you join us, you’re joining much more than a place to study. We know that the experiences you have beyond the classroom are really important. The opportunities to meet new people, try new things and get involved in the clubs and societies you care about will make your time at college even more rewarding.

That’s why, in collaboration with our students, we have developed a personal and professional development programme. From local and international trips, to sports clubs, volunteering and student societies, our College Extra offer gives you the chance to get the most out of your time with us and prepares you for your next steps in life. Whatever you’re interested in, there’s something for you.

Our former student Lucinda says:

“You must remember that studying isn’t everything and sometimes you just need a break. Going to the clubs and college groups you will learn something new but it’s also a place where you can just relax and be yourself.”

Lucinda

What do you get out of it?

Get Active

There are lots of different sports clubs and they all run during lunchtime. They’re a great way to meet new people and get active playing anything from table tennis and badminton to football, basketball, dodgeball and more.

Get Social

Find your people, share ideas and make things happen when you join one of our Clubs and Societies. From our LGBTQ+ Social Group to our Butterfly Book Club, there’s always somewhere to find new and interesting people.

Get Influencing

If you are passionate about campaigning and changing things for the better, you can join one of our many Clubs and Councils. Tackling issues from sustainability and the climate crisis to matters affecting you and your community, you’ll get the opportunity to challenge and debate important topics with senior public figures from local industry and government.

Get Confident

If you want to develop your confidence and leadership skills, you could get involved as a Student Leader, Course Rep or Ambassador. By representing your course and the college, you can make your voice – and that of your fellow students – heard loud and clear.

Get Out There

There are lots of ways you can give something back to your local community. From helping those in need through our Community College Kitchen, to sharing your own skills and knowledge with local residents as part of our ‘Welcome Wednesday’ programme, get out there and get involved!

Duke of Edinburgh Award

The Duke of Edinburgh Award is the world’s leading youth engagement award. You can take part in volunteering, physical and skilled activities as well as the personal challenge of incredible expedition. The Duke of Edinburgh award is done alongside your studies, with just a small amount of time each week.

In a recent survey of universities and employers, the Duke of Edinburgh Award ranked highest as the extracurricular activity they would like to see on someone’s personal statement or C.V.

What is the Duke of Edinburgh Award?

The Duke of Edinburgh Award – or DofE – is many things to many people. It’s a life-changing experience. A fun time with friends. It’s an opportunity to discover new interests and talents. And a tool to develop essential skills for life and work. It’s a recognised mark of achievement, fully respected by employers.

If you’re 14-24, you can take part in the DofE programme. There are three progressive levels – when completed you receive a Bronze, Silver or Gold DofE award.

For all levels, you will take part in a host of activities that involve helping the community and/or environment, becoming fitter, developing new skills and planning, training for and completing an expedition. As part of the Gold award, you also work with a team on a residential activity.

Any young person can do a DofE – regardless of ability, gender, background or location. It’s not a competition, it’s all about setting challenges and pushing personal boundaries.

Why should I do the DofE?

Hundreds of thousands of young people take part each year, and the benefits of achieving any level of DofE Award are endless. DofE is about helping you along the path to a productive and prosperous future. Achieving an award will give you skills, confidence and an edge over others when you apply for college, university or a job.

Beyond your academic achievements, universities want to see evidence of ‘soft skills’ that you have developed through extracurricular activities, such as communication, commitment, leadership and teamwork. A DofE Award is the perfect way to show all these skills in practice.

You’ll have fun, make friends and make a difference to other people’s lives and your community. You’ll improve your self-esteem, build confidence and gain essential skills and qualities for work and life such as resilience, problem-solving, team-working, communication and drive. The DofE will enhance your CV and personal statement when it comes to applying for jobs or university.

How much will it cost?

We are committed to keeping your DofE costs down, so the current welcome pack, which includes the participation fee, is £22 for the Bronze Award, £22 for Silver and £29 for Gold. There may be additional costs for activities, but we’ll tell you about these and what they cover before you sign up.

Your Student Groups

Equalities Council

Advocate for youth voice. Join us to discuss pressing issues, challenge norms, and create positive change.

Green College Assembly

Passionate about sustainability? Dive into eco-friendly discussions, learn about climate action, and discover how you can make a difference.

Debate Club

Sharpen your wit, refine your arguments, and engage in lively debates on topics that matter. From politics to pop culture, we've got it all!

Mental Health Champions

Join our supportive community where you learn about mental health and promote awareness and positivity on campus.

Butterfly Book Club

Whether you're a bookworm or just curious, dive into captivating stories, share your favourite reads, and discuss literary adventures.

LGBTQ+ Social Group

Whether you're a bookworm or just curious, dive into captivating stories, share your favourite reads, and discuss literary adventures.

Events Planning Team

Organise exciting events to bring our community together. From workshops to festivals, your ideas will shape unforgettable experiences.

Skills Builder Champions

Organise exciting events to bring our community together. From workshops to festivals, your ideas will shape unforgettable experiences.

Youth Social Action Activists

Dive into local issues, collaborate with passionate peers, and turn ideas into impactful projects. You'll empower others and create lasting change.

Student Leaders

Bridges the gap between your peers and college leadership, advocating for improvements and inspire others through their leadership.

Course Representatives

Liaise between students and department, advocating for their needs ano fostering a positive learning environment.

Student Ambassadors

Represent your college to fostering a sense of community and make a positive impression our guests.

Fit and Well Group

Join in at lunchtime to play sports, stay active, and boost your fitness while having fun!