College students set to take centre court

College students are set to take centre stage this Friday (May 1), delivering a full-court showcase of talent at a North East basketball game.

Newcastle College is partnering with Newcastle Eagles for a full student-led takeover during the men’s Super League Basketball Play-Off Quarter-Final against the London Lions at the Vertu Arena.

Students from across multiple disciplines will shape the matchday experience from arrival to the final buzzer, spanning live performances and behind-the-scenes operations. 

Performing Arts students will deliver dance routines throughout the game, while music and acting students support DJ sets and PA announcements.

In hospitality, culinary learners from the College’s Canteen Club have prepared nearly 200 desserts for The Brian Manning Suite. 

VIP guests will also be entertained by student performer Alfie Cane, while Travel and Tourism students manage meet-and-greet duties.

Elsewhere, Digital Arts students will capture the event and conduct interviews, with Business students supporting retail activity across the arena.

Creative elements run throughout, including a hand-designed basketball raffle prize and custom t-shirts worn by students, staff, the mascot and players during warm-ups.

The takeover builds on the College’s partnership with the Eagles, offering students hands-on experience in a high-profile live environment while showcasing industry-ready skills.

Lisa Hamilton Murray, deputy principal at Newcastle College, said: “This is a significant moment for Newcastle College and reflects the standard we set. 

“To be taking on such a visible role at a major play-off fixture highlights the confidence our partners have in our students and the quality of what we deliver.

“We are focused on ensuring our students leave with the skills, confidence and professional mindset to succeed in the workplace. 

“Our partnership with the Newcastle Eagles plays an important role in that, helping us create meaningful, high-quality opportunities that prepare students for what comes next.”

Paul Blake, managing director of Newcastle Eagles, added: “Our close partnership with Newcastle College grows every year, and this Friday night’s game will see us working together like never before.

“The club already has students involved in many of our game night operations, but this takeover embeds them in every area of our fan experience, giving them valuable insight into delivering events and working in the entertainment, hospitality and sport industries.

“We want to thank the College for their continued support and we are delighted to be able to create even more volunteering and work experience opportunities for young people to put the skills they have learned in college into practice around our court.”

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