03 November 2009
Students showcase their contributions to the city
Local people from across the region took part in a week-long series of free events during half-term (26 - 31 October 2009) hosted by students at the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University.
The event aimed to celebrate the positive contribution students make to the city and also provide people with the opportunity to take part in a variety of activities, aimed at inspiring them to discover and understand new things.
Students from a range of societies at both universities hosted an exciting schedule of performances and interactive activities, which saw adults and children alike trying their hand at something new.
Families were given a taste of different subject areas with language sessions and fun-based science activities for kids, whilst also being treated to musical performances from students in the Department of Music. Children were also introduced to Professor Fluffy, the cuddly toy academic, who took them on a medical learning journey exploring the body. This involved one child wearing a special tunic and other children taking it in turns to attach Velcro body parts in the correct position.
In addition, people were able to get involved with a number of diverse workshops including hip-hop dancing, samba drumming, singing, circus acts and Capoeira – an Afro-Brazillian art form that combines elements of martial arts, games, music and dance.
U Sport, which manages the University of Sheffield's sporting activities, along with Sheffield Wednesday Football Club and Sheffield United Football Club, also offered football coaching, a penalty shoot-out, a `keepy-up´ competition and free health checks for children and adults.
The Raising and Giving Society (RAG) and the Societies Committee at the University of Sheffield held a special city centre treasure hunt and photo competition, which saw youngsters race across the city to solve the puzzle and win some great prizes including cameras, a family theatre ticket and a ride on Sheffield´s Big Wheel.
The RAG Society was also joined by Councillor Paul Scriven during the week to hand over a total of £117,000 to charity, which was raised through student fundraising activities last year. The students decided to specifically raise money for local charities and make a real difference to the people of Sheffield. These charities included Edale Mountain Rescue, Cavendish Cancer Care and the Burton Street Project.
Paul Tobin, President of the Union of Students at the University of Sheffield, said: "Students play a massive role in the everyday life of Sheffield. From volunteering with the elderly to renovating schools, students put a lot into the local community and it's great that we're able to showcase these achievements."
Dominic Shellard, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for External Affairs at the University of Sheffield, said: "The students at this University actively contribute to the vibrancy and community spirit of the city and this week provided them with the opportunity to celebrate these contributions. The numerous activities on offer were well received by children and adults alike, and we are really proud of all the students who gave up their spare time to make this event possible."
John Palmer, Director of Corporate Communications at Sheffield Hallam University, said: "Our students, many of whom are local themselves, play an important part in the communities in which they live. As well contributing more than 12,000 hours of formal community volunteering to the city, our students are also involved in a host of activities outside of formal volunteering from chairing community meetings to running children's sports teams. Last week's event was a huge success and we hope to repeat it in the future." For further information please contact: Lauren Anderson at the University of Sheffield on 0114 2221046 or email l.h.anderson@sheffield.ac.uk or Tess Humphrys at Sheffield Hallam University on 0114 225 4025 or email t.humphrys@shu.ac.uk
« Return to news releases
|
