Edinburgh College Banner
16 May 2024

Edinburgh College students put their skills to the test as they raise money for local charities

A group of Edinburgh College events students put all of the knowledge and theory they have learned as part of their course to the ultimate test by organising a series of events that has raised thousands of pounds for charity.

The group of 14 HND Events students raised around £2,000 for four Scottish charities after they were challenged to create and deliver a series of events from scratch, as part of the final unit of their course.

The class were split into four groups, who then brainstormed ideas, developed and finalised their event plans, organised all of the details, from arranging the venues to marketing their event, sold tickets, and managed the delivery of their event on the day.

The project was a great success, with over 100 people attending in total. Details of individual events include:

  • Group 1 held a paint and wine evening at The Mother Superior Bar in Leith where attendees had the opportunity to enjoy a glass of vino as they put brush on canvas in a fun and relaxed environment. All proceeds raised from this event were donated to mental health charity Spit it Out.
  • Group 2 hosted a Gin Tasting evening at the Superico Restaurant and Bar on Edinburgh’s Hanover Street, where attendees got to sample a variety of different gin flavours. All proceeds raised from this event were donated to Perth-based mental health charity The Lighthouse.
  • Group 3 hosted a sustainability-themed event at the Milton Road Campus the college, selling a range of clothing, books and toys. All proceeds raised were donated to the When You Wish Upon A Star children’s charity.
  • Group 4 held a Ladies Night at Wallyford Miners Club featuring a number of different games and competitions with the chance to win a variety of prizes. All proceeds raised were donated to Scottish Women’s Aid.
"This section of my course has by far been my favourite. It's allowed me to use the skills and knowledge I have already gained in the course while having full creative control. It taught me valuable planning, teamwork and communication skills that I can take forward into my career in events."
HND Event student Jessica Willox
"Youth mental health is such a massive issue, one which needs to be continually highlighted so that we can ensure we keep these young people safe. Seamus, Robbie and Ellen not only raised over £700 for our charity, they really helped highlight the issues we face every day and it was a privilege to attend the event they organised and speak with those who attended. It meant so much having these three amazing young people raising awareness and funds to help other young people just like them who may be struggling. They should be so proud of themselves, it was a fantastic event and they are all superstars!"
Sharon Thomas, Operations Manager at The Lighthouse