Barnsley College welcomes over 250 attendees to first Volunteering Fair of the year

Barnsley College hosted its first Volunteering Fair of the year at the Old Mill Lane campus, drawing more than 250 students and staff keen to explore ways to gain work experience through volunteering.

The event received strong positive feedback from attendees and participating organisations, reflecting its success in connecting learners with meaningful roles that build skills, increase confidence and support the wider community.

Delivered in partnership with Barnsley Community and Volunteering Services (CVS), the fair brought together a diverse mix of organisations including Jolly Good Communities, Base 71, Barnsley Scouts, Barnsley Citizens Advice Bureau and Barnsley Museums and Heritage Trust. Students had the opportunity to speak directly with stallholders, register their interest in roles via a quick scan form and take part in interactive activities including prize giveaways.

The fair marks the first in a series of four volunteering events taking place across Barnsley College campuses over the next three months. These fairs provide an accessible route for students to enhance their personal development and gather evidence towards their My Skills Advantage targets, supporting their progression and future employability.

Further dates and locations will be promoted throughout the term to encourage even more students to get involved.

Lucy Evans, Personal Development Advisor at Barnsley College, who organised the fair, said: “Working with Barnsley CVS to deliver this event has been a fantastic opportunity, as volunteering enables our students to build essential skills, gain hands-on experience, and add real value to their time at College.

“It has been inspiring to see how motivated our students are to make a positive impact. We hope today’s fair encourages many to take the next step, secure a volunteering role, and enhance their overall College experience by supporting these brilliant local charities.”