Rain Doesn’t Stop the Fun: Highlights from Our Annual Summer Festival!
Dearne Valley College Summer Festival 2026
As the clouds rolled in and the rain started to fall, we refused to let the British weather dampen our spirits. With a few quick adjustments and a lot of community energy, we moved the party indoors and proved that you don’t need sunshine to have a brilliant day out!
Despite the downpours, our campus was buzzing with energy, and it was wonderful to see so many happy, smiling faces throughout the day. Here is a look back at how we turned a rainy day into an unforgettable summer celebration.
Indoor Sports Day and Creative Construction
With the fields a bit too soggy, our team quickly pivoted and set up our sports day activities inside. The competitive spirit was alive and well as families and friends went head-to-head in classic challenges, keeping everyone active, warm, and laughing.
In our Construction department, creativity was the order of the day. Visitors of all ages tried their hand at woodwork, crafting their very own custom bird boxes to take home for their gardens! For those looking for a different kind of challenge, the ‘brick skittle bowling’ was a massive hit, putting unique, heavy-duty spin on a classic arcade game.
Find out more about Construction courses
High-Speed Thrills in the Esports Room
For the thrill-seekers, our state-of-the-art Esports F1 suite became a major hub of excitement. We hosted a ‘Best Lap’ racing competition, where drivers took to the simulator rigs to test their skills on the track. The competition was fierce, with participants chasing down every millisecond. The fastest drivers of the day didn’t just get bragging rights- they walked away with exclusive vouchers to return for 1-1 coaching lessons on the simulators to perfect their racing lines!
Find out more about Esports courses
Furry Friends and Alpaca Walks
Down at the Animal Care Unit, things were a little more relaxed but equally popular. We opened our doors to the public, giving visitors the chance to get up close and personal with some of our resident animals. From scales to fur, the hands-on animal-handling sessions were a massive educational hit with the kids.
Outside, wearing their best wet-weather gear, our alpacas stole the show. Alpaca walking was easily one of the highlights of the festival, with visitors braving the drizzle to take these gentle giants for a stroll around the grounds.
Find out more about Animal Care courses
Delicious Eats
No festival is complete without great food, and our vendors certainly delivered. Attendees kept themselves fuelled with delicious, freshly made homemade pizzas and sweet, piping-hot crepes. And showing true community spirit, the ice cream van was a hit despite the rain, because let’s be honest, it’s never too cold or wet for a 99 flake!
A Huge Thank You!
While it wasn’t the sun-drenched summer day we had originally envisioned, the resilience, enthusiasm, and joy from everyone who attended made it an event remember.
A massive thank you to all the staff, students, vendors, and visitors who came along and made the day so special. We can’t wait to do it all over again next year, though we might keep our fingers crossed for a little less rain next time!
Take a look at the courses on offer at Dearne Valley College