The Big Event 2011

What was originally an overcast day gradually got brighter as the sun shone on Sutton College’s Big Event. An estimated 1000 people visited Manor Park throughout the day to enjoy the huge variety of stalls organised by SCOLA and to take part in the many activities that were on offer.

A stilt walker led the way from the high street for people to enjoy cheerleading displays, face painting, hula hooping, African drumming and a dog show.

Local organisations such as Yourcompost.com, Everyday Active and Sutton libraries had various games and activities that visitors could join in. A lively Radio Marsden coordinated the entertainment on the stage area, that included dance and music displays and a very popular tug of war.
The academic areas for the College ran busy attractions including language taster sessions, exercise and sports games, art competitions and health and beauty treatments.

Event organiser, Kasumi Witty said ‘there has been a bustling, friendly atmosphere throughout the day with many people just sitting watching the entertainment. It has been an exciting opportunity for SCOLA to come out into the open air for a truly community event’.

SCOLA governors, many of Sutton Councillors and supporters of SCOLA helped with directing the public to the well publicised event on Saturday.

Peter Smith, who attended the event with his 2 granddaughters, said that the event had ‘a wonderful community feel’ and it was ‘great to be able to see tutors from the College there who could answer any queries’.

Run in collaboration with the London Borough of Sutton Parks team the event, was one of many ways that SCOLA is working to bring what the College has to offer to the communities it serves. It was an active example of Sutton’s Big Society initiative.

College Principal Saboohi Famili stated she was ‘proud to be part of this event. During the current difficult financial times, we have seen fit to do things differently. This educational and open day fair brings the College to the heart of the communities we serve. We are doing all we can to break the barriers into education. Some may not feel confident walking through the doors of a college but could easily engage with a friendly market stall style of introducing and offering programmes of support.’

She added that ‘SCOLA is pushing boundaries. Many cuts have already been imposed on Adult and Community learning. We have fared well and maintained our provision. We continue to lobby for the voice of adult education to be heard. We are open to feedback as always, and would encourage people to get in touch and talk to us.’