New students began studying A-levels and vocational courses at Strode College in Street this week.

Before they got down to work, they enjoyed the college Freshers' Fair, finding out about the many clubs, activities and interests they can enjoy while at Strode.

There was a buzz of excitement in the air as the students looked around the 48 stands displayed by college clubs and services, outside agencies offering information and advice, and interest groups inviting students to get involved.

Katy Quinn, principal of Strode College, said: "At Strode College, we believe it is important for our students to have the opportunity to get involved in a range of extra-curricular activities.

"We encourage our students to participate in additional clubs, societies and sports teams as this helps them to develop into confident, well rounded and experienced young adults

"This coupled with outstanding academic achievement means our students are well placed to secure places at top universities or that dream job.

"The Freshers' Fair is a vibrant, fun and informative day and a great way to show our new students what is available to them."

Strode students were able to choose from around 34 different sports activities, as well as the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, music, dance and theatre groups, debating, film club, photography, Strode sustainability projects, student newspaper, and employability skills and charity; including the Strode India Project, a college fundraising activity that includes the opportunity for students to visit India.

College staff were on hand at the Freshers' Fair to talk about the services available to students such as academic and personal support, E-Safety, mental health, spiritual support, transport, housing, finances, careers, higher education and counselling.

A wide range of outside agencies also attended including PAPYRUS, Somerset Football Association, We Hear You, Somerset Road Safety, Mendip Pregnancy Crisis Support, 2BU, Somerset Drugs and Alcohol Service, Avon and Somerset Constabulary, Glastonbury Abbey, Samaritans, the Somerset and Wessex Eating Disorders Association, the Eddystone Trust (C Card), MIND in Somerset, Somerset Wide Integrated Sexual Health Services and Next Steps South West.

Among those who attended were four friends who previously went to Crispin School in Street - Imogen Mariano, Tyler Richards (both from Street), Noah Roach and Toby Thomas (from Glastonbury).

Noah and Toby are studying Level 3 Extended Diploma in IT Practitioners, Imogen is studying A-levels in Psychology, Film, and Art and Design, and Tyler is studying A-levels in Psychology, Film and Photography.

They said: "We all chose to study here at Strode as it was really convenient for us all to get to, being so close to home.

"We are excited to find out about the enrichment opportunities available to us, and we may choose some of the same choices. We feel confident to be starting college together and are raring and ready to get started."

Another who attended was Flora Tibber from Butleigh, who formerly went to Wells Blue School, and who is studying A-levels in History, Law, and Psychology.

She said: "The Freshers' Fair has been good with lots of information and options for enrichment available.

"I came to Strode because I wanted a change from school, to be treated as an adult and to meet new people. I am really happy and excited to be studying at Strode College."