Cross-college project supports men’s wellbeing

Burton and South Derbyshire College (BSDC) showed their support for Movember, a global movement dedicated to improving men’s health, through a collaborative project in partnership with City of Wolverhampton College, bringing together further education colleges across the country.

Recognising the growing need for positive action around men’s wellbeing, BSDC’s learning technologist, Zoe Tierney (pictured), helped establish a dedicated community group of colleges that use the same immersive learning technology as BSDC.

She also created powerful, engaging content specifically for Immersive Suite technology, which was shared with participating colleges, offering a unique and meaningful way to support the national Movember movement.

As part of the initiative, BSDC invited colleagues to step into the immersive space and take part in ‘Moving for Movember’ where a static bike was installed in the VRX Immersive Suite, allowing participants to ride through dynamic virtual landscapes to help boost their mental and physical health.

Staff were encouraged to use the space anytime while on site, with an optional contribution to the Movember charity to further support the cause.

This collaboration has now grown to include other FE colleges, all joining forces to raise awareness and encourage open conversations around men’s physical and mental health.

Zoe said: “It’s been inspiring to see so many colleges come together to support men’s wellbeing in such a creative and meaningful way.

“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved as a community, and I hope this initiative continues to make a positive impact across the FE sector.”