South Eastern Regional College (SERC) is opening its doors to prospective students on Thursday 4 June for an open evening across its four campuses. The event runs from 5pm to 8pm at Bangor, Downpatrick, Lisburn and Newtownards.

The college is showcasing full-time and part-time courses starting in September, with tutors on hand to discuss pathways for school leavers and adults returning to education. SERC also promotes leisure courses for those looking to develop a hobby.

Grace Dugan, 21, from Comber, completed a Higher-level Apprenticeship in Culinary Arts, combining study with employment at the Culloden Estate and Spa. She recalled visiting an open evening at the Bangor campus, where the teaching team gave her a tour of the kitchens and outlined course options.

Dylan Burns, 19, from Lisburn, moved from a Traineeship in Mechanical Engineering to an apprenticeship in Mechatronic Engineering. He described the transition from school as smooth, noting smaller class sizes allowed for more one-to-one support from tutors.

Rodrick Downer, 83, from Killyleagh, attends a leisure painting course at the Downpatrick Campus. He said the class offers camaraderie and the chance to learn from other students with different tastes and techniques.

The college states that its expert tutors bring professional experience to their teaching, and it delivers courses designed for practical, real-world application. Further details and registration are available on the SERC website.