FE Big Lunch Celebration Brings Community Together
19 June 2025
Colleges across the country have taken part in this year’s FE Big Lunch, a nationwide initiative recognising the vital work of community and voluntary organisations. The event is part of The Big Lunch, the UK’s annual get-together that celebrates the power of community and connection, launched during the Coronation of King Charles III.
On Tuesday 17 June, Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group (NSCG) welcomed more than 50 guests from the health and social care sector to a special afternoon tea at Stafford College’s Riverbank Restaurant.
The event was held to express gratitude to the dedicated professionals and volunteers working across the local health and social care community. Attendees included staff and residents from St Joseph’s Convent Nursing Home, Futures 2gether, Abbey Court Care Home, Broadmeadow Court Care Home, Crispin Court and Newport Cottage Care Centre. They were joined by special guest Deputy Lieutenant Ann Fisher, NSCG CEO and Principal Craig Hodgson and members of the College’s Senior Leadership Team.
Entertainment was provided by Level 3 Music student Corey Cooke, which saw Crispin Court resident Archie, a former electrician and pub band performer, join him for an impromptu duet of Wonderful Tonight by Eric Clapton.
Guests were treated to a traditional afternoon tea, prepared and served by NSCG’s talented Catering and Hospitality students. The team were supported by students from the Health and Social Care and Foundation Studies programmes, who ensured guests felt welcome and well looked after throughout the afternoon.
Mark Kent, Director of Professional Studies at NSCG, said: “The FE Big Lunch offers a meaningful opportunity for communities to come together. It’s been wonderful to see people from all walks of life united in appreciation for the health and social care sector, which is a vital pillar of our community and it’s only right that we take time to recognise the dedication of those who work and volunteer within it.
“Today has also given our students invaluable real-world experience, whether in the kitchen, front of house, supporting our guests or providing a musical performance. They’ve done themselves and the College proud.”
