Heartwarming moments from the last few weeks

It’s been a life-changing couple of months. This global pandemic is like nothing we’ve ever experienced before. The best thing we can do is continue to follow Government advice and remain positive. Things will get better.

With our positive hats on, we thought we’d take a look at some of the more heartwarming things that have happened during the last few weeks.

Incredible community spirit

In a time of need, good nature takes over, and people come together to support each other. The community spirit that we've shown over the past seven or eight weeks has been incredible. Tutors have been creating PPE on their sewing machines and 3D printers, setting up support groups, and the college has opened up its Eastbourne campus to help our good neighbours at Eastbourne Hospital.

Fabulous fundraising efforts

Perhaps the most heartwarming lockdown story of them all is Captain Tom Moore who raised over £30million (and still rising!) for the NHS. We’ve also been behind our own fundraising efforts for local NHS trusts and good causes. The Sport and Public Service team in Hastings started #ESC1900, aiming to raise money and encourage people to stay fit while in lockdown. Other tutors have been fundraising and taking part in marathons at home to support charities close to their hearts.

Adapting to the new normal

We’ve found resilience and determination to adapt to a new way of working. Working from home was thrust upon us, and we’ve managed to make it work. We’ve set up online meetings using Google and Zoom and our tutors have taken to their kitchens to create cooking videos. We’ve shared ways to boost our wellbeing and mental health, including the Daily Pause, and we’re taking advantage of free online resources and courses.

Signs of recovery

There have been reports that lockdown is helping the environment and nature to flourish. With fewer cars on the road, there is a reduction in the amount of NO2 (nitrogen dioxide) being released into the atmosphere, meaning cleaner air! With fewer boats in the Venice canals, the waters are cleaner which is encouraging seabirds and fish back into the city’s waterways. And with fewer humans on beaches around the world, sea turtles have been are thriving. Loggerhead turtles are nesting in record numbers.

Lockdown food is getting us through

There lots of new food crazes and recipes flying around the internet. Everyone seems to be baking sourdough, rustling up a frying pan pizza or creating banana bread. But the food trend we’re enjoying the most… Whipped Nutella drink. This thick and creamy drink is simple to make and only contains three ingredients. Nutella, milk and whipping cream.