Isle of Wight College Open Day This Weekend

This Saturday (November 16) the Isle of Wight College is inviting adult learners and school leavers to take part in its opening day.

This event offers a chance to see first hand the exciting programmes and facilities available at both Newport and CECAMM campuses.

At CECAMM in Whippingham, visitors will be among the first to tour the brand-new engineering extension, developed through the College's partnership with the South Coast Institute of Technology (IoT).

With over £13 million in Department for Education funding, the IoT is a collaborative initiative designed to address key skills gaps and fuel economic growth across the South Coast.

Thanks to IoT funding, CECAMM now houses advanced engineering, manufacturing, and computing resources, establishing it as the Island’s premier centre for engineering education.

Activities at CECAMM will include:

• Robots in action
• Manual Machining demonstrations
• Injection moulding and heat exchanger exhibitions
• Electronics and marine engine displays
• Virtual Welding – visitors can try their hand!
• 3D printing and Water Jet cutting demonstrations

Employers from various industries will also be on hand to discuss career paths in engineering, with some preparing to announce apprenticeship openings for September 2025.

Meanwhile, the Newport campus will host engaging demonstrations across departments:

• Travel & Tourism – Step into the cabin simulator, where students will demonstrate real-world activities.
• Childcare – Explore interactive displays and activities in the Childcare department.
• Maths – Join in the fun with “code breakers” activities, testing your puzzle-solving skills.
• Business – Experience the classic Pepsi Challenge, hosted by our Business students.
• Photography – Step into a live photoshoot with lights and a professional setup, and see what goes on behind the scenes.

In addition, visitors can:

• Receive free, impartial careers guidance from Linda Stone, our dedicated Careers Advisor.
• Tour a wide range of facilities, including motor workshops, hair and beauty salons, childcare training areas, and our new Esports suite.
• Speak with Student Engagement Coaches to learn about support services, financial assistance, and student life.
• Apply for courses, explore enrichment activities like the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, and learn about our travel opportunities for students.

In motor vehicle departments, visitors can get hands-on with practical demonstrations and explore essential skills in the trades including our new EV training rig.

The motor vehicle team will be offering tyre pressure checks and sharing insights on tyre safety and maintenance, providing valuable knowledge for everyday vehicle care.

In the construction areas, plumbing students will demonstrate plastic pipe jointing techniques, while the electrical department invites visitors to try their hand at wiring with a variety of plugs and terminals available to explore.

These interactive sessions are a great way to get a feel for the practical skills taught in our construction and motor vehicle programmes.

With facilities unmatched on the Isle of Wight, The Isle of Wight College is the destination for students eager to gain skills and experiences in a supportive and dynamic environment.

This open day offers an ideal opportunity to tour our campuses, meet our expert tutors, and discover pathways to a bright future in education.

Newport and CECAMM campuses will be open to visitors on Saturday, 16 November, from 10am to 2pm.