Newcastle College students delivered the largest and most comprehensive student-led takeover ever seen at a Newcastle Eagles men’s game, supporting the club’s Super League Basketball Play-Off Quarter-Final clash with the London Lions at the Vertu Arena.
Students from across the College played a central role in the live event, taking on a wide range of industry-relevant responsibilities in front of a full crowd on one of the biggest nights of the Eagles’ season.
From pre-match build-up through to in-game delivery, learners worked across performance, production, hospitality and customer experience, contributing to a professional standard event environment.
Catering students from the College’s 'Canteen Club' prepared and delivered nearly 200 signature desserts, served in the Brian Manning Suite as part of the arena’s VIP hospitality offering. Earlier in the week, the College’s Chef’s Academy also hosted the Eagles squad, providing a specially prepared pre-match meal ahead of the fixture.
Students from Digital Arts captured live content and behind-the-scenes footage throughout the evening, while Performing Arts students delivered a half-time routine. Music students took on DJ responsibilities, and learners from Travel and Tourism supported guest services and front-of-house delivery.
The takeover forms part of Newcastle College’s long-standing partnership with the Eagles, which continues to create opportunities for students to gain experience in live, professional environments.
Lisa Hamilton-Murray, Deputy Principal of Newcastle College, said: “This takeover is a brilliant example of what can be achieved when our students are given the opportunity to work in real, high-profile environments. From performance and production through to hospitality and customer experience, they have demonstrated professionalism, teamwork and a real commitment to delivering at a high standard.
“It’s fantastic to see them step up and deliver in an environment like this, and to know they’re gaining the kind of experience that will stay with them as they move into their careers.”
Paul Blake, Managing Director of Newcastle Eagles, said: “Friday night was a fantastic example of what this partnership can deliver. The Newcastle College students were outstanding across every part of the event, bringing real energy, professionalism and attention to detail throughout.
“They played a big role in elevating the atmosphere on the night, not just for our fans but for the players as well and contributed to what was a brilliant occasion at the Vertu Arena.
“We’re proud to work so closely with the College, and it’s great to see students stepping into these environments and delivering to such a high standard.”
Jessica Smith, a Professional Cookery student at Newcastle College, said: “Being part of the Canteen Club has brought us so many great opportunities and memories. As a team, we’ve been working hard to get everything ready for this event, and the prep has definitely been more intense than a regular day in the kitchen.
“Knowing the desserts were being served at the Eagles game made the whole experience feel a lot more real, and it means a lot to be trusted to produce and serve them on that scale.”
Emily Carmody, who is studying Commercial Dance at Newcastle College University Centre, said: “The atmosphere at the Eagles game was amazing. Having the crowd behind us made it a fun, exciting and completely different experience.
“From studio to court, the dancers worked really hard to make the performance special for the takeover, and it was an honour to step onto the court for the last time as captain of the Dance Team. The Newcastle College takeover made the final game even more memorable.”
The event showcased the breadth of talent across the College, with students working collaboratively to deliver a large-scale live sporting event. It also highlights the strength of the College’s partnerships with industry, providing learners with valuable, real-world experience that supports their progression into employment.