Find Your Feet: Begin Your College Journey
At the start of the college year, the RNN Group welcomes all new students at Rotherham College, North Notts College, and Dearne Valley College.
Spread across eight weeks, the programme offers a variety of activities and events to help students connect with others, discover new opportunities, and feel at home on campus. Each week introduces something different, giving students the chance to engage with courses, clubs, and support services while preparing for future study or work.
Week 1: Welcome Week
1st – 5th September:Â
Welcome Week helps you settle into college with campus tours, tutor introductions, and sessions on key learning tools. Each day begins with a welcome from the Director of Curriculum, setting expectations and sharing college values. Workshops and social activities give you opportunities to meet people and get to grips with your course across all campuses.
Week 2: Clubs and Activities Week
8th – 12th September:Â
Explore enrichment opportunities available at all campuses, including sports, arts, and volunteering. You can join activities during lessons, breaks, and lunchtimes, taking part in friendly competitions and challenges. These sessions are designed to help you make new friends and discover the variety of opportunities on offer.
Enrichment opportunities at College
Week 3: Feedback Week
15th – 19th September:Â
Share your views through surveys, class discussions, and tutor meetings across all campuses. Parents and carers are invited to attend information evenings to learn more about your course and support options. You will also be reminded of college expectations, core values, and the student services available to you.
Week 4: Swap Don’t Drop Week
22nd – 26th September:
This week focuses on reviewing your course and ensuring you are on the right path. One-to-one meetings and guidance sessions are available for students considering a course change. The aim is to help you feel confident that you are on the course that best suits your goals.
Week 5: Careers and Skills Week
29th September – 3rd October:
Participate in employability workshops and the Careers Fair, open to all campuses, with employers, universities, and apprenticeship providers. Sessions cover budgeting, interview techniques, and essential job skills to support your future plans. These events provide opportunities to explore pathways beyond college and develop practical skills for work and study.
Week 6: Wellbeing Week
6th – 10th October:
Focus on your physical and mental health with workshops, relaxation sessions, and access to mentoring and counselling. Activities encourage social interaction and personal growth across all campuses. On Friday, the annual Colour Run at Dearne Valley College is open to all students for a fun, active celebration.
More about wellbeing at RNN Group
Week 7: Higher Education Week
13th – 17th October:
Attend workshops and Q&A sessions on university courses, apprenticeships, and funding options. Representatives from partner institutions are available to guide you in planning your next steps. You will also have access to the Higher Education Fair to explore courses, funding, and student life across all campuses.
Find out more about Higher Education at RNN Group
Week 8: Celebration Week
20th – 21st October:
Celebrate achievements across all campuses with awards for attendance, behaviour, and participation. Events include music, games, charity activities, and fun challenges to reflect on your first half-term. Take part and celebrate your successes before the half-term break.
For full dates, times, and campus-specific details, visit: www.nnc.ac.uk/welcome/.