Bon appetit! Cadbury was the first of a series of colleges in the region to thank their local community with food and friendship by hosting the Big Community Lunch.
Cadbury students and staff were saying thank you to more than 60 guests from Kings Norton Primary School and local care homes, with a picnic-style lunch attended by HM The King’s representative, the Deputy Lieutenant Dr M Sakhawat.
The special occasion involved delicious food, creative craft activities, face painting and live music from students. Students were also responsible for helping to organise the event and make it as sustainable as possible.
Executive Director for Human Resources and Organisational Development, Becky Beaty, said: “The Big Lunch is a wonderful opportunity for neighbours and communities to come together for a few hours of friendship, food, and fun. It aims to connect people and foster friendlier, safer communities where conversations, ideas, skills, resources, and friendship can be shared.
“A big thank to our hosts, the hugely committed student support team who are key to our positive learning environment and to ensuring all learners have full access to their studies through a broad range of pastoral and welfare services.”
The project, which is being organised and run by the West Midlands Lieutenancy, means Cadbury will join fellow further education colleges in the region in hosting community events throughout June.
More than a thousand people are set to attend lunches, afternoon teas and picnics, which will coincide with the year’s Big Lunch project to celebrate everything that makes our communities great.
The Lord-Lieutenant for the West Midlands, Sir John Crabtree OBE, said; “I’m delighted that so many colleges from right across the region are getting involved with this year’s #FE Big Lunch.
“Launched last year to coincide with the Coronation, the initiative has really taken off and is set to be bigger and better than ever.
“With a sustainable and environmentally friendly theme this year, the West Midlands Lieutenancy is pleased to be supporting these important community events and we hope everyone has a great time.”
