Open Event guide
We're looking forward to seeing you at our Open Event. This guide will help you understand what to expect, where to go and the support available to you throughout the evening
What to expect at our Willerby Grove, Peterlee Campus Open Events
5.00pm - Arrival and check-in
When you arrive, head to our check-in desk located in reception where our team will get you checked in.
5.10pm - Welcome talk
Join our College Leadership Group in the theatre to find out more about East Durham College, our courses, facilities and student experience.
5.15pm - 6.00pm - Subject area sessions
After the welcome talk, you will be directed to your chosen subject area stand, where members of our teaching team will be waiting to meet you.
You'll be taken to the relevant learning spaces, where you can:
- Meet teaching staff
- Learn more about your course options
- View facilities and learning spaces
6.00pm - 6.30pm - Explore and ask questions
Once subject area sessions are over, visitors are welcome to return to the Atrium where you can:
- Join a campus tour
- Receive support with your application
- Speak with our Careers Team for guidance and advice
- Ask any additional questions you might have
6.30pm - Event close
What to expect at our Open Event: Willerby Grove, Peterlee Campus
5.00pm - Arrival and check-in
When you arrive, head to our check-in desk located in reception where our team will get you checked in.
6.00pm - 6.30pm - Explore and ask questions
Once subject area sessions are over, visitors are welcome to return to the Atrium where you can:
- Join a campus tour
- Receive support with your application
- Speak with our Careers Team for guidance and advice
- Ask any additional questions you might have
6.30pm - Event close
Navigating the Campus
A campus map will be provided when you arrive to help you find your way around.
Staff members are available throughout the event to provide directions, answer questions and support anyone who may need assistance.
What the event might look and sound like
To help you feel prepared, be aware that:
- The Atrium and reception are may be busy when visitors first arrive.
- There will be low-level background music playing in the Atrium.
- Check-in desks will be located in reception.
- Staff will guide visitors to the theatre for the welcome talk.
- Following the talk, staff will escort visitors to their chosen subject area.
If at any point you need support, a quieter environment or any additional assistance, please speak to a member of staff.
Things to see and do
During the event, you will have opportunities to:
- Attend subject area talks
- Meet teachers and support staff
- Ask questions about courses and progression routes
- View course information
- Explore our facilities on a campus tour
- Speak with the Careers Team
- Meet the Additional Learning Support Team and learn more about the support available
Quiet spaces
We understand that busy events can sometimes feel overwhelming.
A quiet space can be made available to anyone who would benefit from a calm environment during the event. Please speak to a member of staff if you require access to this space.
Accessibility information
East Durham College is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible environment for all visitors.
Available facilities include:
- Accessible parking spaces
- Step-free and wheelchair-accessible access throughout the campus
- Accessible and inclusive toilet facilities
- Additional support from staff where required
If you have any specific access requirements, please speak to a member of staff who will be happy to help.
Who can help?
Our staff are available throughout the event to support you.
Whether you need help finding a room, understanding course information, accessing support services or simply have a question, please don't hesitate to ask.
Questions you may wish to ask
You might find it helpful to ask questions such as:
- What will I study on this course?
- What qualifications do I need to join?
- What facilities will I use?
- What support is available if I need extra help?
- What enrichment or extracurricular opportunities are available?
- What can I do after completing this course?
- How is the course assessed?
- What is a typical timetable like?
- Are there opportunities for work experience or industry placements?
What to expect after the event
If you have been interviewed
If you attend an interview during the Open Event and are successful, you may receive a conditional offer for your chosen course by text message. You will then be asked to accept the offer before receiving a formal confirmation letter.
If you apply after the event
If you submit an application for a course during or after the Open Event, you'll be invited to attend an interview with your chosen subject area.
Need more time?
You're welcome to attend one of our future Open Events if you'd like another opportunities to explore the college, ask questions or discuss your option.
We're here to help
We want every visitor to have a positive and comfortable experience at East Durham College. If there is anything we can do to support you during your visit, please let a member of staff know. We can't wait to meet you!
To see all of our upcoming Open Events, visit our events page.
