35 students in St Vincent Sixth Form College’s School of Personalised Learning have just planned and run ‘Hobby Con 2025’. The brand new event attracted over 200 visitors who chatted with the young enthusiasts about their various past times.
Collections including military tanks, model trains and cricket gear were on display in The Jervis Gallery. As well as hearing all about the students’ passions, guests made bracelets, played video games and relaxed with a little colouring.
Organisers hoped to develop their communication skills and confidence by talking about their hobbies. One such student was Doctor Who fan Ashdon, there to share his love of the iconic TV show:
“I like how expansive it is, how it can bring so many different people together, how it’s so progressive. It’s been progressive since the 60s. And it is still progressive to this day.” said Ashdon.
Aware of loneliness, the youngsters were keen to encourage friends to get involved in pursuits like martial arts, darts and football. Transformers fan Cameron was eager to see how people reacted to his models and explain why they mean so much to him.
“Its story is so vast. There are so many characters, ideas and concepts that I just love. Like Ancient Transformers and Transformer Gods – they are so unique and diverse.” Cameron enthused.
Sixth form studies students like Cameron and Ashdon study in the School of Personalised Learning which offers bespoke support for anyone’s special educational needs or disability. Learning Support Assistant (LSA) Marie loved seeing her students in a different environment.
“It’s a great atmosphere for everybody. They can talk and talk about their subjects and get other people interested in it.” Marie said.
Fellow LSA Suzanne was also a fan of the event, saying:
“People you wouldn’t always get in class to talk are able to talk to people here about their hobbies. It’s amazing that the students can showcase what they do outside of college and I hope they do it again.”
After delivering such a successful event, dreams of ‘Hobby Con 2026’, might just be in reach for these passionate pupils, perhaps with a different selection of hobbies on display.
