MEMBERS of the public will be able to see Exeter College as they’ve never seen it before this Saturday when it opens up its Hele Road Campus to everyone for a fun-packed day of free attractions and events, between 10am and 3pm.

The first of its kind to be held by the College, July 3 promises to be an open day with a difference, say organisers who have planned all sorts of activities for the occasion.

Aimed at welcoming existing and prospective students and their families, it is hoped that visitors from across the city and Devon simply curious to find out more about the College will also come along.

Making the most of both the open outdoor spaces surrounding the main campus and the buildings themselves at Hele Road, all the College’s faculties and a number of external organisations will be present throughout the day.

A programme of live music will be provided by: Exeter College Music and Performing Arts students Sinead Perry and Cyndi Wood (vocals and guitar), and Emily Elston, Daniel Goodwin and Judy Pratt (vocals and guitar); Exeter College Enrichment Choir; local musician Daniel Schamroth; band Neat Little House; 12-year-old guitarist Isaac Gomis (who will also be one of several stilt-walkers on the day); a band from West Exe Technology College; and the Exeter College-sponsored Stick Youth Band.

Visitors will also be able to join in a Penalty Shoot-out, organised by the Sports and Leisure department, witness the Maths and Science department’s very own crime scene investigation, take part in 3D CAD design tasters, explore the History of Football with the help of Humanities staff, or buy from the Book Sale, to be operated on the day by English department staff dressed as their favourite authors.

The Construction team will be giving painting and DIY demonstrations and have planned a giant wooden puzzle game, while Business and IT will be running a game show-style interactive quiz. Automotive will be wowing onlookers too, with spray-painting, a wheel-changing competition, and a Ferrari on display. Public Services, Health and Social Care will be free face-painting for children, and Foundation Studies will be selling a selection of tasty treats on their Cake Stall.

Hair and Beauty tasters, a family Treasure Hunt with prizes including an Exeter City family ticket, delicious smoothies made by the Hospitality department, a BBQ, and an ice cream van are also expected to appeal to all ages.

External organisations to be represented will include the Police and Fire and Rescue services and the NHS. Connexions will be at hand to offer useful career guidance and a Cycle Exeter team of riders will be performing mountain bike tricks.

Co-organiser Stephanie Darrie, Deputy Head of Student Experience, says: “For prospective students, the Summer Exe-travaganza is going to be an exciting way to see the College and will prove really useful. There will be an Information Zone open throughout the event where they will be able to find out more about courses they are interested in, and about other issues such as funding and travel. In addition, tutors will be available to talk to individuals with any questions. And it won’t matter what the weather does as, rain or shine, we are well-prepared either way!

“We want Saturday’s event to be really helpful and informative, but at the same time one which the whole family can come along to and enjoy. We are hoping people coming into the city to visit the Exeter Summer Festival or other attractions on the day will take the time to stop by. It’s going to be a real community event – and even better, it’s completely free!”.