MARKING its 50th year, Halesowen College is continuing a year of celebrations by swinging open its doors at a 60s-themed open day.

Reliving the year in which the Whittingham Road college started educating students from across the region, students and staff across all curriculum areas will be embracing the spirit of the era and celebrating the sights, sounds and landmark events of 1966 in particular.

Among the activities which can be enjoyed by visitors to the Open Events are ‘Retro Recipes’ in the college restaurant, a look at ‘Significant Discoveries’ in science, a re-enactment of England’s classic World Cup victory, a celebration of traditional Holiday Camps, and a Star Trek extravaganza in IT and gaming.

Rachel Sherriff, who previously visited a college open day with her son, was keen to share her comments about their experience.

She said: “My son and I thoroughly enjoyed attending the college’s open day and the launch of the 50th birthday celebrations. The overall atmosphere felt extremely professional and very welcoming, with staff and students helping to bring the courses to life. The displays and showcases were excellent and we had great fun watching the musical performance by a flashmob of students.

“I would particularly praise the Student Ambassadors – their friendly, confident and helpful manner really put my son and I at ease. Needless to say, my son was very excited and is enthusiastic about attending Halesowen College.”

Over the past 50 years the college has seen many changes, from the number of staff employed to the variety of courses being offered. The college’s Whittingham Road campus has also changed beyond recognition and the final phase of a £20 million development program was marked in September, when The Rt. Hon. The Viscount Cobham, DL, officially opened the new Performing Arts Centre.

The Open Events day will run from 4pm until 8pm on Friday, November 4, and 10am until 4pm on Saturday, November 5.

For more information about the college or the open day, visit halesowen.ac.uk.