Togetherness and sustainability at the core of King’s Coronation celebrations

Community togetherness and eco-friendliness ran through Walsall College’s celebrations marking the Coronation of King Charles III.

Three parties hosted by students and staff took place around the college, attended by local residents, community groups and family members.  Each event featured sustainably produced invitations, cutlery, decorations, table settings and displays.

Health and social care students welcomed residents from Deighton Court Nursing Home in Walsall and Ellwood Day Centre in Erdington, Birmingham to their Afternoon Tea held at Wisemore Campus.

Pleck Library opened its doors to residents, with people enjoying tea, sandwiches, cakes, games and quizzes.  The Little Professors Nursery also hosted a party for the children and their parents.

Principal and Chief Executive, Jatinder Sharma CBE DL attended the health and social care students’ party along with some of the college’s leadership team.  He also supported the event in his capacity as Deputy Lieutenant of the West Midlands.

“It was a joy for us to open the college’s doors to parents, grandparents and our wider communities,” he said.

“Momentous occasions like these are a strong reminder of how colleges have a unique power to bring together different groups of people in a collaborative and cohesive way.

He added: “We were particularly pleased to welcome those who may not have considered or felt able to come to the college before now due to language, health and confidence barriers.

“All our guests commented on, how friendly our students and staff were and how easy it was for them to feel included in all the activities that took place.  This has provided an impetus for us to host similar events for these communities in future.”

Walsall College was one of 14 further education providers in the area to serve an Afternoon Tea or Big Lunch to special guests from across their communities.

In the run up to and throughout the Coronation, the college’s Wisemore Campus was also decorated with bunting designed by around 285 students during their tutorial sessions and additional students at on-site sustainability and STEAM career events.  Every piece was made from recycled cardboard boxes and packaging.