Over 1000 visitors attended a family day out to celebrate the 100th anniversary of West Suffolk College and Eastern Education Group (EEG).
The occasion took place on Out Risbygate Street in Bury St Edmunds and offered the chance for the community to come to together to celebrate this centenary landmark.
The educational establishment was originally set up as an adult training centre at the back of The Rising Sun pub in Bury St Edmunds teaching around 100 students back in 1925.
Today it supports around 15,000 people via institutions that include not only West Suffolk College, but Abbeygate and One Sixth Form Colleges, University Studies at West Suffolk College, outreach centres in Suffolk, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire, as well as a number of SEND schools based across East Anglia.
This birthday bash is one of a number of events taking place this year that have included awards nights and alumni dinners.
And more celebrations – including a history lecture about the origins of the group on Thursday 25 September at 6pm – are planned later in the year.
Dr Nikos Savvas is the CEO of EEG. He said: He said: “Eastern Education Group (EEG) is the community. It is here for families and for everyone. In an ever-changing world we support the community through changes that are happening. We are driving society forward. We give people hope, ambition and we nurture them. We are preparing every new generation for the very exciting journey ahead of them. Today shows the deep foundations that EEG has within the community and the love and support that everyone has for us, and how deeply embedded within it that we are. Thanks to everyone who came along and our amazing staff for creating this fantastic event.”
During the fun day, activities included a craft fair, food zone, a kids corner, music, flash mobs, Morris dancers, a history walk – and every department showcased what they do via interactive displays.
Antony Knights came along with his company called The Suffolk Coffee Pod. He said: “It’s fantastic (that the college is turning 100). Anyone who is doing something for that long is doing something right.”
One of the organisers was Carrie Edwards, the head of marketing and brand for Eastern Education Group. Carrie said: “100 years is a massive achievement. The group is an educational stalwart and today was important to give something back to the community. We are an outstanding group who has helped set up many people in Bury St Edmunds and beyond and will continue to do so.”
Max Doherty, 17 from Bury is a performing arts student who took part in some flash mobs. Max said: “The college has been a staple for Bury that has been helping people for over 100 years – It’s amazing – and it’s helping me.”
Sophie Aris from Handmade Galore was part of the craft market. Sophie said: “The college has grown every year and it’s important to celebrate (this landmark). It (the college) has had a big impact on the community.”
Patricia Masango is a supporting officer working for BME Suffolk Support, a non-profit community organisation helping people in the county. On supporting this event, Patricia said: “Today has been good. We have been able to raise more awareness (of what we do). This is my second time here and I’m amazed by how big it is – the fact that you guys (EEG) have been running for 100 years is impressive.”
Fleur Hughes came along with her family. Fleur, from Bury, said: “I wanted to come and support it (this event), inspire my daughter (Summer) and have a fun family day out. It’s been a lovely positive atmosphere. I’d sum up the college by saying its forward thinking and welcoming.”
Fleur’s daughter Summer added: “It’s been fun. I enjoyed going on the bouncy castle.”
