Wheel changes, football and racing simulators might not be the first things that come to mind when talking about mental health - but at NKC Hadlow College, they helped get an important conversation started.
Students took part in a special Dudefest event on Wednesday 4 November, bringing together fun activities, friendly competition and opportunities to talk openly about mental health, wellbeing and where to find support.
Organised by the college’s Carpentry and Motor Vehicle departments, the event aimed to break down some of the barriers that can prevent young men from talking about their feelings or seeking help, while reinforcing one important message: it’s okay to not be okay.
Students had the chance to speak with representatives from charities and organisations including The Shaw Trust and Mental Health Motorbike, finding out more about the support available and ways to look after their mental health.
There was plenty to get involved in throughout the day, including five-a-side football tournaments, student and staff tug-of-war competitions, driving simulators, wheel-change challenges and board games.
Alex Warsfold, Motorcycle Department Course Manager at NKC Hadlow College, said: “We’ve got a lot of young men aged 16 and over on our courses who are very hands-on, and often find it hard to talk about their feelings. With Dudefest, we really wanted to highlight some of the ways and methods they can use to deal with that, and help them realise it’s okay to not be okay.”
Dudefest forms part of North Kent Colleges Group’s wider commitment to student wellbeing, helping young people and adult learners feel supported both inside and outside the classroom.
Students at NKC Hadlow College can access a range of mental health and wellbeing services, including personalised support from the Welfare and Safeguarding Team and confidential counselling.
To find out more about student support at NKC Hadlow College, click here.