Students at Vision West Notts will learn about the benefits of volunteering through a series of awareness-raising sessions at the Derby Road campus next week (21-24 February).

College staff and representatives from various organisations will be explaining how students can get involved in a range of volunteering activities, both locally and internationally, and really make a difference to communities.

College sports co-ordinator Colin Eley will promote the Championing Notts Sports Volunteering programme which gives students the chance to volunteer at sporting events including the Robin Hood Festival of Running. 

Colin will also encourage students to enter a team into the college’s multi-sports event in April, which will feature five-a-side football, fencing, volleyball, archery and badminton.

Mansfield Community and Voluntary Service and Mansfield District Council will give advice about volunteering in the community, while representatives from Help For Heroes will explain how students can volunteer to raise money to support members of the Armed Forces wounded during active service.

The college’s learner coaches will explain how students can combine volunteering with studying, and a litter-pick organised by the Students’ Union on Wednesday (22 February) at 12.30pm will see students tidying the streets around the Derby Road campus.

Learner coach Lee Bunting said: “This is all aimed at helping our students discover the many pathways into volunteering, both at home and abroad. We’ll be showing them how to get involved in a broad range of volunteering opportunities, which can really help when it comes to applying for university.

“Volunteering is a rewarding exercise which can boost self-esteem and confidence, as well as help young people discover their hidden talents while contributing to society.”