STUDENTS from Okehampton and Tavistock colleges were among 2,000 from across Cornwall and Devon who visited Cornwall college campuses for 'Experience Days' recently.

The days offered year 10 school students the opportunity to come in, get a feel for college life and attend practical workshops in a wide variety of course areas.

At Duchy College at Stoke Climsland, visiting students from Tavistock and Okehampton were given the chance to try their hands at a host of practical activities including tractor driving, Royal Marines activity sessions, various lessons in animal care, kayaking, equine pursuits and early years activities.

The aim of the day was for the young people to get a real feel for college life and to explore the many opportunities that are available to them at post-16 stage.

They not only had the chance for some hands on work but also got to talk to staff, take a look around the college and get to chat to current students about their experiences at college.

Marice Russell, teacher from Tavistock College, said: 'Our students had a great day, some ended their day muddy and exhausted, but were very happy with it and were very pleased to have had the opportunity to experience life at Duchy College for the day.'

Dave Linnell, principal of Cornwall College said: 'We had a fantastic uptake from schools giving their pupils the opportunity to get an experience of college life.

'The feedback we have received so far has been very positive from both staff and students and we hope it has shown them what options they have and what is available to them after school.'

For more information on courses available at Duchy College please call 01579 372233 or visit http://www.duchy.ac.uk">www.duchy.ac.uk