Last week, hundreds of College staff volunteered their time to support local charities and community projects during our Community Outreach Day.

This initiative was created by staff, driven by a shared desire to give back to the communities the College serves. Staff stepped forward as team leaders to coordinate efforts and nominate causes that are close to their hearts. It’s a powerful way for us to contribute to our local area, demonstrate our organisational values in action, and make a real difference where we live and work.

In Abingdon, this year’s activities included a charity quilt making session in aid of Project Linus UK, who provide quilts for children who need a hug; supporting Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire hospitals, councils, and SEND schools.

Also on campus there was pay-to-play rounders and a picnic, with the aim of building community both within and outside of the College with donations going to The Abingdon Bridge (TAB) charity that provides guidance and emotional support for young people.

Back again this year was the ever popular five-a-side football tournament in the sports hall. The tournament saw staff teams representing their chosen charities to battle it out for a donation prize pot split amongst the winner and runners up. After a closely fought tournament, the Sports team, Living Rent Free were crowned champions narrowly beating the Creative industries team, Creativo La Corona.

Our sports staff also linked up with one of our community partners, Oxford United in the Community (OUitC), to showcase facilities with a view to the two teams planning some future collaborative activities.

A cake and tea and coffee morning in aid of the Breast Cancer Now charity was also a huge success. As well as raising money, the event was also held in support of a colleague, who is currently undergoing treatment for this condition. A handful of staff baked and provided a bounty of cakes. After refreshments, games, and bingo, over £625 was raised, which was a truly amazing result!

Away from the campuses a work party travelled to Fairford Scout Group - helping them spruce up their hut and outdoor space.

Staff from our Hair & Beauty department have an established relationship with Sovereign Housing schemes for the elderly, and visited to provide hair and beauty services to the residents in Field House, Botley.

Volunteers also organised litter picks along the Thames Path, in Abingdon and in Minster Lovell, near Witney.

Back at the Witney campus, our OAL team organised a bring and share afternoon tea for asylum seekers. This warm and welcoming cultural exchange, invited adults and children to share homemade food, play games and meet new friends.

Our Commitment to Community and Excellence

Kash Barlow, Vice Principal People and Culture, reflected on the day:

“At the heart of our College is a deep commitment to the communities we serve. By actively engaging with local initiatives, we provide our staff with incredible opportunities to make a meaningful impact through volunteering. This not only enriches the lives of those we help but also fosters a sense of fulfilment and purpose amongst our staff. Together, we thrive as our staff benefit, the people we assist benefit, and the communities we are dedicated to supporting flourish.”

Thank you to all the brilliant charities and local organisations who welcomed us to join them for our annual Community Outreach Day!