What a term it’s been! From cultural celebrations and creative workshops to exciting trips and social events, term 2 has been packed with opportunities for students to connect, unwind and try something new.
Creativity and Culture
Creativity remained at the heart of ResLife this term, with a wide range of craft events giving students the chance to take a break from academic pressures and unwind. From mug painting to Bob Ross-style canvas art and even slime making, there was something for everyone to enjoy. These sessions provided a welcoming and relaxed environment for students to express themselves and recharge.
We were also delighted to welcome back the Southeast Quilters Guild, who hosted sewing workshops and helped students develop practical skills. Alongside this, our fabric patching event encouraged sustainable habits by showing students how to repair and revive their clothes.
In addition, this term saw a strong focus on celebrating the diversity of our student community.
In March, we hosted a wonderful Iftar Dinner in Rutherford Dining Hall, where students came together to break their fast in a warm and inclusive setting while enjoying a complimentary meal.
One of the standout events of the term must be our Lunar New Year celebration, which welcomed nearly 200 students! With support from the Chinese and Hong Kong societies, the event featured a Mahjong class, origami workshops, calligraphy sessions and live traditional music from the Cultural Centre. Students were greeted with red envelopes filled with chocolate coins and enjoyed a delicious spread of food and drinks.
As well as our much-loved Friday Movie Nights, we introduced something brand new this term, Cultural Movie Nights. Held every other Monday in Eliot Lecture Theatre 2, these evenings brought students together to enjoy films alongside themed snacks inspired by countries such as Kenya, Turkey, Thailand and Nigeria. Students played an active role by voting for films via Instagram, making the experience truly student led.
Out and About!
Our coach trips continue to be a huge hit, regularly selling out and attracting waiting lists. This term, we partnered with the Chaplaincy to run trips to Oxford and Chartwell, and introduced a brand-new visit to Port Lympne, complete with a safari experience that received fantastic feedback. Looking ahead, term 3 promises even more exciting destinations, including Leeds Castle, Brighton, Cambridge and London!
On campus fun!
There has been plenty happening on campus too. We partnered with our new catering company, Chartwell’s, to host a Soup Making Class, which proved to be a cosy and enjoyable experience for those who attended. We’re excited to bring more food-based events next term, so keep an eye on the What’s On calendar.
Our Animal Experience Event also returned bigger than ever, with over 140 students attending. From adorable bunnies and gerbils to more unusual creatures like corn snakes, tarantulas, geckos and even a cockroach, students had the opportunity to get hands-on and learn more about a fascinating range of animals. From archery tag sessions in collaboration with Kent Sport to quiz and bingo nights — including a popular K-pop quiz — there has been no shortage of fun and friendly competition. We’ve also continued our partnership with East Kent Mind and Kent COG, supporting the Well-Being Café at Hoath Farmhouse every Tuesday afternoon, offering students a welcoming space to relax and connect. Be sure to check the ResLife calendar regularly to stay up to date with upcoming events.
Ending on a High: Easter Extravaganza
We rounded off the term in style with our ResLife Easter Extravaganza, welcoming over 200 students for an afternoon full of food, fun and festivities.
Students enjoyed burgers, a chocolate fountain and drinks, alongside interactive activities such as the gel blaster range and cash grabber machine, with £50 Amazon vouchers up for grabs. Craft stations included candle painting and Easter decorations, while the South East Quilters Guild hosted another popular sewing session. And of course, no Easter celebration would be complete without a visit from our very own Easter Bunny, who hopped around handing out chocolate eggs!
Looking Ahead
As we move into term 3, we’re excited to bring even more events to campus, especially outdoors as the weather improves. With new activities, returning favourites and plenty more opportunities to connect, there’s lots to look forward to.
Here’s to another fantastic term ahead!